The National Society of Black Engineers will present a Lifetime Achievement Award to architect and civil rights activist, Harvey B. Gantt, at its annual Professional Development Conference (PDC).
Gantt was the first African American to graduate from Clemson University after he sued the segregated institution for entry. He served as mayor of Charlotte, North Carolina in 1983, and to-date, he has been the only African American to do so. He made an unsuccessful run for senate twice against Republican Senator Jesse Helms, in 1990 and 1996.
The PDC is the NSBE’s annual conference provides networking, mentoring, and support to the nation’s black engineers and engineering students.
“The NSBE Professional Development Conference is a cornerstone event where our Professionals can receive training to supplement their careers, have meaningful technical dialog, engage employers, and show a strong STEM presence in our community,†said Crystal M. Smith, PMP, professional development conference chair of NSBE’s 2016 Professional Development Conference, in a released statement. “Our 2016 theme is ‘Elevating Our Culture, Community, and Careers,’ and our power-packed agenda will do just that!â€
“We view the NSBE Professionals as the global brain trust of black engineers,†said NSBE Professionals Chair Richard Z. White. “Our vision statement for the Professionals is to develop and impact our active members to succeed as future corporate leaders, technical experts in the industry, and strong stewards of their communities. Each year, NSBE Professionals members from our six regions across the U.S. gather at the PDC to reconnect with our vision and move the Society forward.â€
The PDC will take place on Sept. 29—Oct. 2, 2016, at The Westin Charlotte, in Charlotte, North Carolina. News One‘s Roland Martin will keynote. Joan Higginbotham, corporate executive and former astronaut, will also receive a Lifetime Achievement Award.