(Black PR Wire) A new bootcamp program gave students from historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) a chance to enhance and develop new skills. A partnership between Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) and TIAA resulted in the first cohort of the TIAA Backpacks to Briefcases Scholars to meet at the company’s main campus recently in Charlotte, North Carolina.  Prior to the bootcamp, the Backpacks to Briefcases program also included six weeks of virtual development.  

Using a badging system, 20 students increased their knowledge and abilities by stacking their skill sets for a holistic approach to leadership. Development focused on emotional intelligence, financial well-being and professional communications. Other activities included strengths building and design-thinking workshops, as well as exposure to TIAA leaders and early career talent. Students also solved a case study and presented their findings.

Each student received a $1,000 award for completing the program and case competition winners received an additional $500 per team member, further recognizing their achievements. Students also received a surprise congratulatory message from TIAA’s President and CEO, Thasunda Brown Duckett.

“The practical insights, interactive workshops, and authentic connections we made with industry professionals, especially those at TIAA left a lasting impression on me and it’s programs like this that make all the difference in readying a young professional for the future,” Victoria Hall, a sophomore at Bluefield State College, said.

“We’re grateful to TIAA’s commitment to Backpack to Briefcases, DevCon and TMCF’s annual Leadership Institute,” Dr. Harry L. Williams, president & CEO of TMCF, said. “Bootcamps like this are critical to preparing the next generation of workforce talent and providing a pipeline for students who may not otherwise have one.”  

The next cohort of Backpacks to Briefcases scholars will be selected spring 2025.

Source: Thurgood Marshall College Fund