CONNECT

Diversity and inclusion are core values of the Belk College of Business, as is professional development and career readiness. The annual CONNECT Leadership Development Summit was established to provide a sense of community for our Black and Latinx students, while also connecting them to a diverse network of Belk College community partners and alumni.

During the half-day professional development event, students will connect with alumni and business professionals to discover timely insights from the keynote speaker and two breakout sessions, culminating in a reception to foster networking skills and scholarship presentations.

The Belk College of Business is proud to be among the most diverse business schools in the Carolinas:

  • The Belk College is now ranked number 4 in the U.S. in producing Black graduates in Finance, and our college ranks in the top 50 for Black graduates in accounting and marketing. 
  • Our Doctorate in Business Administration program also ranks number two in the country for conferring degrees to all minority students and number four for African American students. 
  • UNC Charlotte is number one in the University of North Carolina System for Hispanic student enrollment and graduates. 

past events

Malcomb Coley, Central Region Private Leader and Charlotte Managing Partner at EY, the CONNECT Leadership Development Summit

2024

The Spring 2024 CONNECT – powered by MSC Industrial Supply – keynote presenter was Malcomb Coley, Central Region Private Leader and Charlotte Managing Partner at EY.

Omar G. Jorge Peña, CEO of Charlotte-based Compare Foods and Chairman of Aurora Grocery Group, was the keynote speaker the Spring 2023 CONNECT conference.

2023

Omar G. Jorge Peña, CEO of Charlotte-based Compare Foods and Chairman of Aurora Grocery Group, was the keynote speaker the Spring 2023 CONNECT conference.

2022

The Spring 2022 CONNECT keynote presenter was Elliott Bryant ‘85, Senior Vice President and General Manager for the Classic Client Solution business unit at Allscripts.

sponsorship opportunities

UNC Charlotte’s Belk College of Business is seeking investment from companies and organizations to support CONNECT networking, professional development and scholarships for Belk College Black and Latinx students. Gifts will be recognized at the event and via Belk College communication channels. Most importantly, your support will help our students connect, learn and grow.

Please contact us to see how your company or organization can connect with our students and community. We welcome a conversation about your needs and interests.