Hampton, Va. (November 19, 2024) — United Airlines reaffirmed its commitment to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) with a high-profile visit to Hampton University on Thursday, November 14. Led by United’s President Brett Hart and Vice President of the Houston Hub Phil Griffith, the visit underscored the airline’s investment in fostering diverse talent in aviation and building pathways to career success for HBCU students.
The daylong event featured a keynote address by Hart, an interactive career panel with United Airlines professionals, including three Hampton alumni pilots known as the Hampton Six, and personalized mentorship opportunities. Students gained valuable insights into the aviation industry and received practical advice on preparing for impactful careers.
A President with a Purpose
Brett Hart is a man that understands the college student experience well. Brett received his Bachelor of Arts in philosophy and English from the University of Michigan and a Juris Doctor from the University of Chicago Law School. At the ‘United on the Yard’ event, Hart reflected on the many triumphs and shifts that he’s experienced in his life.
“I remember piling into my father’s pickup truck as he drove me to campus. I was a first-generation student. I also didn’t study aviation. Everything about my background says that I shouldn’t be where I am,” Hart said. “United is a company where dreams can take off.”
As president of United, Hart is responsible for United’s global operations – flight, technical and network operations as well as inflight services and safety. In addition, he leads the company’s external-facing functions including the government affairs, regulatory, corporate communications, advertising, market and community innovation, legal, global community engagement and environmental sustainability teams. He also oversees business-critical functions such as the corporate real estate, human resources and labor relations teams.
Previously, Hart served as executive vice president and chief administrative officer for United, where he oversaw the company’s legal and environmental affairs; corporate security; corporate real estate worldwide; government affairs; community affairs; and international, regulatory and policy matters for the airline.
His journey from being a legal expert to spearheading one of the world’s top airlines is a testament to the power of fulfilling purpose and excelling in the corporate world. Additionally, his career pivots proved to students the impact of switching pathways that align with one’s desires and interests.
Hart’s presence on campus provided students with an invigorating opportunity to meet a leader of color who has many shared life experiences with them. Furthermore, Hart met with student anchor Logan Russell of WHOV-TV to discuss his career and provide journalism and communications students an opportunity to interview a corporate president. Student journalist and Editor-in-Chief of the Script Jordyn Isaacs was also able to interview a United representative.
Changing the Dynamics of Representation in the Aviation Industry and Aviation Trends
Representatives from the airline engaged with students, sharing insights into the wide range of career opportunities available within the company, from pilots and flight attendants to corporate professionals and engineers. Phil Griffith, vice president, Houston Hub spoke about his HBCU experience and how his own college tenure shaped his perspectives in the world of aviation.
“There are roles for students of all majors and from all backgrounds at United,” said Griffith. “We have a need for marketers, scientists, doctors, and all. My HBCU experience has always been a guiding light for my career. I would not be where I am today without my time at Grambling State University.”
Griffith holds a master’s degree in manufacturing systems from Southern Illinois University and a bachelor’s degree in electronics engineering technology from Grambling State University.
Helping to lead a major hub like Houston speaks to Griffith’s strategic management skills and the growing need for professionals from HBCUs as aviation trends continue to evolve. Many major airports like Houston’s George Bush Intercontinental Airport are following one aviation trend that’s becoming a growing standard in the United States. These airports, often referred to as an aerotropolis, are transforming into a social hub where passengers can meet, rest, and experience an increasing array of airport services. Airports like these are shaping into their own sort of metropolitan experience.
By providing leadership for these sorts of advancements in the aviation industry, Griffith’s path was also a phenomenal testimony that inspired Hampton students as they listened to his personal story.
Additionally, three of the six members of the Hampton Six attended the United on the Yard event including Captain Tirrell Listenbee, Captain Kyle Whitaker, and Captain Gabrielle Harding. These phenomenal United pilots, who were all friends and classmates at Hampton University, shared candid reflections on their journeys from undergraduates to aviation professionals.
They recounted their experiences navigating the rigorous demands of Hampton’s aviation program while balancing personal aspirations and challenges. The pilots spoke about the importance of perseverance, adaptability, and mentorship in overcoming obstacles, and they emphasized how their shared commitment and camaraderie played a pivotal role in their collective success. Their stories inspired students, offering a firsthand glimpse into the resilience and determination required to excel in a competitive and dynamic industry.
This elite group of trailblazers all work for United and are instrumental in championing diversity and nurturing the next generation of minority pilots within the company.
“Being a female pilot comes with a lot of responsibility but also a sense of pride and determination to open even more doors for women in this industry,” Harding said during the panel.
They’re also instrumental in the work being done with United’s Aviate Academy. Aviate is a program designed to train the next generation of pilots at United. This program provides world-class flight training to help equip members with the skills needed for a successful career as a pilot. It’s designed solely for applicants with little to no piloting experience, and the full course takes about a year to complete.
Hampton U. is Where Ambition Takes Flight
This partnership underscores Hampton University’s unwavering commitment to creating pathways that connect its students and alumni with transformative opportunities. United Airlines’ presence on campus reflects a shared vision for cultivating a diverse and dynamic talent pipeline in the aviation industry.
“Hampton University is dedicated to equipping our students to thrive as leaders and innovators on a global scale,” said Darrell K. Williams, president of Hampton University. “United Airlines’ engagement demonstrates the power of partnerships that inspire our students to see their potential and pursue excellence in high-impact careers.”
Elevating Hampton Excellence
Hampton University’s strategic initiative is aimed at fostering a culture of academic rigor, innovation, and community engagement. Rooted in the University’s commitment to excellence, this 10-year plan seeks to enhance educational offerings, expand research opportunities, and empower students to become leaders in their fields. Through innovative programs, commitment to producing groundbreaking research, collaboration with industry partners, and a focus on social mobility, Elevating Hampton Excellence strives to create an inclusive environment where all students can thrive. This initiative embodies Hampton’s mission to transform lives, uplift communities, and elevate the collective potential of its students, faculty, and alumni.
About Hampton University
Hampton University, nestled along the scenic shores of Hampton, Virginia, is a dynamic historically Black institution with a storied legacy of academic excellence, pioneering research, and dedicated community service. Here, students discover an empowering environment that fuels their ambitions, nurtures their potential, and inspires them to rise, lead, and excel.
Founded in 1868, Hampton combines a robust liberal arts education with a strong emphasis on scientific and professional disciplines, offering a wide range of distinctive programs, including leading-edge degrees in STEM, business, arts, and health sciences. The University is at the forefront of research in areas such as atmospheric science, cancer treatment, and cybersecurity, driving innovation that impacts the world. Additionally, the newly launched School of Religion stands out as the first HBCU to offer a doctoral degree in theology, religious studies, and ministry. Contributing $530 million annually to both the regional and the Commonwealth of Virginia’s economy, Hampton plays a vital role in regional development while championing diversity, inclusion, and opportunity.
Recognized by Money Magazine as one of the “Best Colleges in America” and honored by Coastal Virginia as the “Best Private College,” Hampton University is a close-knit community of learners and educators representing 44 states and 32 territories and nations. Committed to nurturing intellectual curiosity, critical thinking, and global citizenship, Hampton prepares its students to lead and thrive in an evolving world. For more information, visit www.hamptonu.edu.
For media inquiries, please contact Mahogany Waldon in the Office of University Relations, at mahogany.waldon@hamptonu.edu or 757-727-5987.
