Clark Atlanta University, the first Historically Black College and University in the southern United States, and IHG Hotels & Resorts hosted an event earlier this month highlighting the importance of corporate HBCU partnerships to support student success. Together with CAU students and leaders, IHG announced it would again renew its commitment to CAU as a Premier Corporate Partner for 2024 and officially opened a renovated student lounge at the School of Business.
During the event, students participated in a Q&A panel discussion with Clark Atlanta University President George T. French, Jr.; Dean of the School of Business Silvanus J. Udoka; and IHG CEO of the Americas Jolyon Bulley, who shared insights on pursuing careers, embodying leadership traits and taking risks.
Courtney English, chief policy officer and senior advisor to Atlanta Mayor Andre Dickens, attended the event and underscored the importance of the Atlanta business community’s support of both local HBCUs and the students’ educational and career pathways.
“Corporate partnerships with forward-thinking companies like IHG help contribute to the success of Clark Atlanta University students,” French said in a statement. “Friday’s event was a great example of how the business community can support HBCUs and introduce new career opportunities to students who are ready to excel. I would like to thank IHG for its continued commitment to CAU and helping to forge a path for the next generation of leaders.”
“The students at Clark Atlanta University have shown so much energy, passion and aspiration to learn and be great leaders,” Bulley added. “We’re pleased to continue partnering with CAU and open even more doors to opportunity for diverse students. The talent and potential of these young professionals is clear to see, and I look forward to having more of them come through IHG’s doors.”
As a Premier Corporate Partner to CAU, IHG supports students’ academic experiences in a variety of ways, including preparing students for interviews and resume-building as part of the school’s annual career week. IHG also recruits CAU students for internship and full-time employment opportunities. Since the partnership was announced, IHG has invited six CAU students to intern within the organization and hired two CAU graduates in full-time positions at IHG’s Americas headquarters. Additionally, IHG plans to offer students access to its IHG Skills Academy virtual learning platform featuring resources for professional skill development and careers in hospitality.