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NSBE Charleston to host A Walk For Education
The National Society of Black Engineers (NSBE) Charleston Professionals and Burke High School will host A Walk For Education on Saturday, February 22, 2020, in downtown Charleston.
This college and career fair will be held at Burke from 10:00 a.m. to 2:00 p.m. High schoolers across the district are encouraged to attend. The goal of A Walk for Education is to increase awareness of the opportunities available through education, particularly in the STEM fields and to shatter myths about African-Americans in math, science, engineering, and other technologies.
Edward Copes, Programs Chair forNSBE Charleston Professionals, said the event allows colleges to get in front of students.
“In addition, we want to let students know that there are companies out there that are willing to hire them,” Copes said. “We encourage students, not sure about STEM, to attend.”
NSBE Charleston Professionals will distribute information about local colleges, HBCUs, SAT preparation guides, local and national scholarships, and the benefits of majoring in STEM fields.
Onsite vendors will include colleges, universities, and companies who create and hire STEM professionals such as Boeing and NIWC. SAT preparation guides will be provided while supplies last and a panel discussion at 2:00 p.m. will round out the afternoon. Members of the Charleston Alphas, who are employed in STEM fields, will be the keynote speakers.
Local colleges include Charleston Southern University, University of South Carolina, ECPI, Medical University of South Carolina, Wofford College, Johnson C. Smith University, Tuskegee College, College of Charleston, and The Citadel.
“A Walk for Education addresses the gap in minority students being exposed to professionals, such as engineers that look just like them,” said Copes. “Most African American students or those who live in disadvantaged communities have
never met one, let alone their parents. We’re here to open up those conversations. That alone opens their eyes. That’s the prize.”
With more than 500 chapters and nearly 16,000 active members in the U.S. and abroad, the NSBE is one of the largest student-governed organizations based in the United States. NSBE, a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization founded in 1975, supports and promotes the aspirations of collegiate and pre-collegiate students and technical professionals in engineering and technology. NSBE’s mission is to increase the number of culturally responsible Black Engineers who excel academically, succeed professionally and positively impact the community.
“You’ll leave with more than just information,” said Copes. “You’ll leave with the motivation to graduate at the head of your class and to learn how to apply yourself to achieve success.”
Light snacks and beverages will be provided as well as the opportunity to purchase food from a local food truck.
The NSBE Charleston Professionals Chapter was re-established in 2011. The chapter has since grown to include members from several companies around the Lowcountry. For questions about A Walk For Education or if there is interest volunteering at this event, contact Edward Copes at programs@nsbecharleston.org.
Interested students are encouraged to check with their school’s career specialist to inquire if transportation will be made available from the school to the event.
For more information contact the Office of Strategy and Communications at (843) 937-6303.