MUNCIE, Ind. – Collegiate 100 (C100) is an extension of 100 Black Men of America Inc., which is focused on creating college leaders to further their career goals while still in college.
Collegiate 100 members are introduced to summer jobs, building resumes and building up the local Black community strategically.
Laith Hicks is the charter president of the Collegiate 100 Ball State Chapter, and he says this is an opportunity for students who would not normally have the space to make it their own.
“Predominantly Black communities are not always exposed to certain resources or how to code-switch and show up in professional environments,” Hicks said.
The Ball State Chapter of C100 is the second chapter in Indiana. The group is currently made up of ten members, but wants to expand its reach. “We are accepting local chapter members. We have local membership. National membership has the opportunity to go into conferences and access to a wide international network,” Hicks added.
Hicks says that building connections is also important to begin brand building.
“. . .It’s a pipeline for corporations like Eli Lilly, JD Finishline, First Merchant Bank and all of the Indy corporations that are looking for talent. Especially with connections with the 100 Black men, they’re looking at the 100 Black men to show up and present.”
Collegiate members are encouraged to join the group to build those connections within the community.
“C100 is for people who may not be comfortable, but for students to get better and those opportunities and reset that model of excellence,” Hicks said.
The group will have its first meeting in October, starting with workshops and monthly meetings throughout the semester.
Contact Isaiah Farrow with comments at isaiah.fairrow@bsu.edu
