Beyond Persistence: Building Ecosystems Where Black Men Thrive in Higher Education

Inspired by Roadtrip Nation’s documentary Thriving: Black Men in Higher Education, this panel explores the relationships and supports that help Black men thrive across college, career, and community. Through honest conversation and lived experience, panelists will unpack the role of friendship and mentorship in building belonging and resilience, and identify what it takes to move from support systems to opportunity systems. The session will spotlight practical ways higher ed leaders and industry partners can strengthen networks, expand pathways into entrepreneurship and innovation, and ensure the next generation of Black men has access to both education and the connections that sustain long-term success and representation.