Our Events
Freshcon
SSLC kicks off every new academic year with Freshcon in late August during the University of Maryland's new student welcome weekend. Freshcon is the largest welcome event at the university dedicated to preparing Black students for academic and professional success. The first Freshcon has grown immensely since it began in 2013 and Freshcon 2019 was the first Freshcon to be sponsored by Pepsi Co.
Success Hour
In partnership with the university career center and the president's promise, SSLC hosts Success Hour during the fall and Spring career fairs. This event is an opportunity for students to network with representatives from multiple companies in various industries who would like to interact with students of diverse backgrounds.
Netnite
During the week of homecoming, SSLC hosts Netnite. This event connects alumni and current students, presents invaluable tips on how students can prepare for academic and professional success, and further cultivates a culture of excellence.
Gift of Giving Gala
The Gift of Giving Gala is an annual event hosted by the Student Success Leadership Council in order to highlight Black students, alumni, and faculty.
Several awards are presented at the the Gift of Giving Gala to honor the legacy of the first Black male and female students, Hiram Whittle and Elaine Johnson, the first Black faculty member, Lucia James, a prominent Black alumni, Aaron McGruder, and the influential nature that recent Black alumni have had on this campus and in their daily lives.
We expect that through the Gift of Giving Gala, we can retain more Black students at the University of Maryland by building a strong community, providing access to academic and financial resources, and promoting a thriving and engaging group of future industry leaders.
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