VILLANOVA, Pa. – For the third consecutive year, Villanova sent a number of student-athletes and staff members to the Black Student-Athlete Summit that was once again held in Los Angeles at the end of May. This year saw the largest group of Wildcats in attendance since Villanova started traveling to the event in 2022, sending 15 student-athletes representing seven sports. Three members of the UNITAS leadership team joined them: Assistant Athletic Director for Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion and Director of UNITAS Leashia Lewis, Assistant AD/Compliance Frank Yeboah and McLendon Fellow Curtis Williams.

The Black Student-Athlete Summit hosted on the campus of USC is a three-day event centered around empowering Black Student-Athletes to maximize their college experience in the classroom and on their respective fields of play while encouraging them to make the most of any and all opportunities they get. The event is filled with discussions and networking opportunities with other student-athletes and a variety of professionals in the world of college sports who can help with career development.

Ahead of this year’s event, Villanova’s group also had the chance to build their network with Villanova alumni connections at a small gathering with former Villanova student-athletes and had experienced behind the scenes looks at Jimmy Kimmel Live and FOX Sports where they witnessed a live podcast interview by Keyshawn Johnson.

Some of the Wildcats involved reflected on their week in the City of Angels and what the event meant to them.

WHAT MADE THE BLACK STUDENT-ATHLETE SUMMIT IMPACTFUL FOR YOU?

“What made the summit impactful for me was hearing the jewels that these professionals gave to us. They all had great takes and said them in a way to where I can relate as a fellow African American. I am grateful for being able to go to the summit and have this experience. I built a better relationship with student athletes from my own school. While also networking and building my relationship with people from all over the country.” - Jalen Goodman, Junior, Football

"The summit put into perspective how deeply connected our Nova network is to many job opportunities, but, more importantly made me recognize how much sports has done for me and connected me to those alike to me. To have the opportunity to go to California and meet people likeminded and going through the same struggles I am was very eye opening. It also helped me put into perspective the value in self marketing and image. To not limit yourself to one way of living, but to also take advantage of each opportunity even when it feels like it’s not a job or internship you’d originally want to take." - Foday Bangura, Sophomore, Men's Soccer

“What made the summit so impactful for me was being able to speak to peers as well as speakers to help me identify my identity beyond being a Division 1 athlete. If you have the opportunity to go to the summit take it! The summit can change your life if you walk into events ready to learn and grow.” - Isas Waxter, Senior, Football

WHAT MESSAGES OR EVENTS STOOD OUT TO YOU FROM THE WEEK?

"There was a statement made on day two that if you are comfortable in life you aren’t growing enough in life. That hit me hard because it’s completely true. I have definitely put myself in positions where I felt comfortable or stayed in a place of not expanding and that is a scary feeling. You never want to be there because I learned the only way to get some of the opportunities others don’t is doing things others won’t. Whether it’s working hard or putting yourself out there." - Imevar Justice, Freshman, Track and Field

"I attended the The Long Talk session with Kamal Carter, that conversation was truly inspiring. He tried to connect with all the athletes in the room and become more personal which worked. His goal is to become a pioneer in helping push racism out of sports but also everyday life. He goes around to colleges and speaks to athletic teams about what we can do to help that. I would love to have him at our school in the future." - O'Neil Dawes, Junior, Men's Soccer

"Rashad Campbell and Dr. Marcus King session "The Mindful Athlete" taught us to be "do-ers" rather than just saying what you are going to do and to practice what you preach in order to be the best as you aspire to be." - Tyrell Mims, Senior, Football

HOW CAN ATTENDING AN EVENT LIKE THIS INSPIRE STUDENT-ATHLETES?

“It will better your understanding of lots of things because of the different opportunities presented. There are people from bigger and smaller schools and all this does is help others talk about similar experiences. I was able to meet lots of new people and share stories. It was a pleasure being able to network with individuals who see the world in the same light.” - Antonio Johnson, Junior, Football

“It inspires student-athletes to learn. By talking to people who come from different backgrounds and areas, you learn how to navigate different situations. So by attending this event, we meet and learn from so many different people that we bring not only a better understanding of other situations but a different perspective that will help our school grow in its own right. Having a voice has a lot more to do than just talking. To have a voice you also have to give an ear and listen, because by learning from others you also are able to pass knowledge on.” - Irene Ngabonziza, Junior, Football

“Attending an event like this can inspire student athletes to stay encouraged and not give up, especially students in marginalized groups. As a black man in a tech field dominated by white men, I was very pleased when I saw successful black people in tech during the pro day breakout sessions.” - Javon Daniels, Freshman, Men's Soccer

WHAT IS YOUR BIGGEST TAKEAWAY FROM THE SUMMIT?

“There is no linear path to success but with hard work, determination and our skills as athletes, anything is possible. Additionally, Villanova has a vast network of alumni who want you to succeed. Make as many connections as possible and be candid about your career aspirations so that they can lead you in the right direction.” - Gabriella Henson-Vendrell, Sophomore Women's Lacrosse

“Your network is your net worth.” - Branden Johns, Senior, Men's Soccer