The School of Liberal Arts and Education Career Readiness Day: Public Service and The Liberal Arts will be held on Wednesday, February 26. Students will gain an immeasurable number of insights into various career fields and opportunities post-graduation.
Designed to equip students with the knowledge and tools needed to transition successfully from academia to the workforce, the event will feature industry professionals, alumni, and experts across a range of disciplines within the government as well as within liberal arts.
Dr. Deitra Trent will serve as the event’s first keynote speaker. Dr. Dietra Trent served as executive director of the White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence, and Economic Opportunity through Historically Black Colleges and Universities. The organization was founded in 1980 as the White House Initiative on HBCUs to “achieve a significant increase in the participation by historically Black colleges and universities in federally sponsored programs.”
Since 2019, Dr. Trent has been serving as chief of staff for the president of George Mason University in Fairfax, Virginia. Earlier, she was secretary of education for the Commonwealth of Virginia, after serving as deputy secretary of education and director of constituent services under earlier state administrations. Dr. Trent is a graduate of Virginia State University, where she majored in criminal justice. She holds a Master of Public Administration degree and a Ph.D. in public policy from Virginia Commonwealth University.
Hampton University President Darrell K. Williams and First Lady Myra Williams will serve as the second keynote speakers of the Day. Both speakers are Hampton University graduates. As dedicated leaders and accomplished professionals, the Williamses bring a wealth of experience and insight to inspire students preparing for their future careers.
President Williams, a retired three-star general and Hampton alumnus, has a distinguished background in leadership, logistics, and global operations, while Mrs. Williams, a seasoned corporate executive and mentor, has championed professional development and community engagement. Their combined expertise will provide invaluable guidance on career readiness, leadership, and success in a competitive workforce.
Attendees will have the opportunity to engage in panel discussions, networking sessions, and career-focused workshops aimed at preparing them for meaningful and impactful careers. Students will learn how to navigate the federal government hiring and internship process.
“The Career Readiness Day is a pivotal experience for our students, providing them with direct access to professionals who have successfully navigated careers in public service and the liberal arts,” said Dr. Linda Malone-Colon, Dean of the School of Liberal Arts and Education. “This event aligns with Hampton University’s mission to prepare our students for leadership and excellence in their respective fields.”
The Day will highlight career paths in government, nonprofit organizations, education, communications, humanities, social and behavioral sciences and social advocacy, among other sectors. Students will also gain professional development strategies, resume-building tips, and insights into securing internships and full-time positions.
Last year’s event featured a panel discussion with actor Ving Rhames as well as other industry professionals from across a diverse list of sectors.
Students are encouraged to check HUNEWS in their inbox to register for this event when the link is available.
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.
As a Carnegie R2-designated institution, Hampton 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 public 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 James Parker in the Office of University Relations, at james.parker@hamptonu.edu or 757-718-2949. Follow us @_hamptonu.
