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FVSU Attendees Wrap up Experience at the Black Student-Athlete Summit

6/2/2023 11:40:00 AM

By: Makayla Cruz-Vazquez
Los Angeles, Calif. - Fort Valley State University takes over at the Black Student-Athlete Summit, hosted by the University of Southern California. FVSU was represented by our very own Makayla Cruz-Vazquez, Tyler Pendergrass, and Dr. Renae Myles Payne.
 
Student-athletes had the opportunity to meet others from different universities across the country and network with professionals who were either student-athletes themselves to play professionally. Sunday, March 21 kicked-off the BSAS. Students went to registration and received swag bags with different BSA gear; then came the welcome reception where the attendees had the chance to mix and mingle with each other!
 
Monday was Day 1 of forums covering various topics such as the importance of a student-athletes mental health, the importance of representation for black student-athletes, and a table talk session for student-athletes only. Those in attendance had the privilege of hearing from guest speakers: Soul Cole (former NFL player), Ivy League athletes, Koi Love, Resa Lovelace, Matt Barnes (former NBA player), and many more. At the end of the day, students had to opportunity to showcase their talents at the USC Galen Center!
 
Tuesday, student-athletes had the chance to put themselves out there and network with professionals during the Pro Day sessions. Throughout these breakout sessions, student-athletes connected with those who have kick-started their careers and got the opportunity to ask questions one-on-one about the real world.
 
The BSA summit ended with Wednesday's forums on personal branding, hearing from the NCAA National office, and an interview with Rich Paul, the founder of Klutch Sports Group.
 
Tyler Pendergrass had the honor of representing the SIAC, as well as, the FVSU men's basketball team during the BSA Summit.
 
"As a student-athlete, it was a pleasure to be selected to participate in the Black Athlete Summit this year in Los Angeles," said Pendergrass. "The opportunity to represent the SIAC and build relationships through networking was rewarding. Having been able to attend various workshops and learn from the many professionals, it was very uplifting. I learned a lot and look forward to being a part of this amazing event again next year."
Fort Valley's very own Dr. Payne was named Athletic Administrator of the Year by the Black Student-Athlete Summit.
 
"I am so happy Makayla and Tyler had the opportunity to experience the BSA Summit. Thankful that the NCAA and MOAA continue to invest in our student-athletes at HBCUs," noted Dr. Payne.

Completing the ending comments of the FVSU attending, Makayla Cruz-Vazquez adds her final thoughts.
 
"My favorite day had to be Tuesday! Being able to hear different stories from professionals who were where I am right now was amazing and inspirational! I had an amazing time attending the BSA Summit, I am beyond grateful for the opportunity to represent my university," stressed Cruz-Vazquez. "I made so many connections and friendships that can last a lifetime! I will be looking forward to attending next year."


 

 
-Wildcats-
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