Darrell King (right), senior associate director of MBP, with the other workshop speakers and members of Phi Beta Sigma
On Feb. 6, the Broad College was represented at the 31st annual Phi Beta Sigma Youth Workshop, organized by Darrell King, senior associate director of Multicultural Business Programs at the Broad College, to offer development resources for young men of color in high school.
“We position this workshop in Black History Month annually because we recognize our past leaders as well as our future leaders,” King said. “We want these people to become future positive role models for the Black community as well as the community at large.”
What began as a small gathering of students in the immediate area has grown significantly. “The event has grown from reaching just Lansing schools to reaching Lansing, East Lansing, Holt, Haslett and Waverly,” King said. This year’s workshop welcomed more than 100 students from these schools to learn about professionalism, financial literacy, career options and mentorship.
During the workshop, attendees were given presentations on a variety of topics pertaining to their future including college admissions and finding a career path. Speakers included Ernest Betts, assistant dean of MBP, Lieutenant Governor Garland Gilchrest and Judge Donald Allen.
In addition, a career fair was offered for the students. “This program helps the younger students by exposing them to career professionals who can help them learn and navigate their futures,” King explained. Representatives from local law enforcement, military and high-tech careers were on hand to speak to students.
Ann Crain, programs coordinator and academic advisor for MBP, hosted a table during the career fair to promote education opportunities at MSU and the Broad College, including the Residential Business Community and the Summer Business Institute.
“The interactions were highly satisfying and really helped us make a difference in the lives of the students,” King said. He hopes to continue increasing the number of students involved and attending from additional school districts. King also mentioned the desire to include more interactive technology as well as continuing the workshop on financial literacy.
“Having served as chairperson for this event, I can attest to the impact that this program has on young people,” he said. “It helps them aspire to careers beyond high school and college and connects them with great role models.”
The event was also covered by WILX CBS News 10.
