SUMA Launches Inaugural CBT Business Conference

If the Coming Back Together reunions have demonstrated anything, it’s the power of networking among Syracuse University’s alumni. “Our alumni not only bleed Orange, they are also deeply committed to helping fellow alumni of color achieve career success. We’ve seen that through attendance at our reunion career panels and at the first ’Cuse Marketplace at CBT 2021,” says Miko Horn ’95, director of alumni events in the Office of Multicultural Advancement.

On June 10 and 11, alumni have a new opportunity for networking and career development at the inaugural CBT Business Conference for Students and Alumni, to be held at the Joseph I. Lubin House in New York City.

“The CBT Business Conference is an opportunity for alumni and current students to leverage Orange relationships to benefit their careers and businesses,” says Rachel Vassel ’91, G’21, associate vice president of multicultural advancement.

During the two-day conference, talented members of the Orange community (both University staff and alumni) will share entrepreneurial tips and tricks, provide opportunities to invest and grow wealth, and help drive professional goals by providing an overview of Syracuse University career and entrepreneurship opportunities and hold important conversations about workplace trends. In addition, students will receive valuable mentoring, advice, and guidance from experienced career coaches and successful alumni.

The program on Friday, June 10 is intended for students and young alumni with speakers focusing on topics including internships, defining your career path, start-ups and perfecting your pitch. The Saturday, June 11 program is geared to alumni with greater work experience, and include sessions on the post-COVID workplace, funding minority-owned businesses, personal branding, pivoting careers and creating wealth. Both days conclude with networking social events.

The conference was conceived by Fatimah Moody ’90, co-owner of LinkVism Consulting Group, and a member of the Multicultural Advancement Advisory Council, who is sponsoring the event along with fellow advisory council member Mariama Boney ’96, G’98, a licensed social worker and CEO of Achieve More, an executive coaching and leadership consulting firm.

“The conference will be impactful because it provides opportunities for current students, recent graduates, and our alumni community to network,” says Moody. “We encourage current students and recent grads to take advantage of this event. The Syracuse alumni community is everywhere, making a difference, and is positioned to provide guidance, opportunities and overall support.”

Boney says the conference will provide a roadmap to achieve more, maximize money, stay well and thrive in one’s career or business. “Now, more than ever, we must stand together, stay connected to our purpose, elevate the passion and accelerate the possibilities,” she says.

Whether alumni are just starting out, looking to change directions, amplify their careers or simply grow their network, Horn says the CBT Business Conference is going to be a great opportunity to learn from and with their Orange community.