From March 6–8, 2025, our beloved alma mater showcased its unwavering commitment to family, community, and progress during Hampton University’s 43rd Annual Conference on the Black Family, “Rooted in Legacy, Rising in Power: Building Intergenerational Wealth and Leadership.” On behalf of the National Hampton Alumni Association, Inc. (NHAA), we salute the hundreds of alumni, entrepreneurs, scholars, and community champions who gathered on campus driven by a shared resolve: fortifying Black communities through lasting economic empowerment, world-class education, and visionary leadership.
The conference opened with electrifying insight from distinguished economist Dr. Julianne Malveaux ’76, whose keynote challenged us to turn Hampton’s storied legacy into bolder enterprises, deeper financial literacy, and broader pathways for prosperity. “Our heritage does not rest in museums,” she reminded us. “It lives in the businesses we build, the wisdom we pass on, and the futures we fund.”
Across three dynamic days, alumni experts and thought leaders filled classrooms and halls with strategy and inspiration:
“Tech Equity in Underserved Communities” spotlighted cutting-edge opportunities to close the digital divide, led by venture capitalist Marcus Thompson ’10.
“Preserving HBCU Legacies Through Modern Philanthropy” featured nonprofit trailblazer Dr. Keisha Reynolds ’99, charting new models of giving that honor the past while fueling tomorrow.
Workshops, networking sessions, and mentoring circles bridged generations, ensuring Pirates young and seasoned left armed to elevate families and neighborhoods alike.
A defining moment came when alumni announced a $500,000 seed gift establishing the Hampton Family Economic Empowerment Fund. Administered in partnership with the University, this fund will:
Provide micro-loans and grants to Black-owned businesses across Hampton Roads.
Award scholarships to students pursuing careers in economics, entrepreneurship, and social impact.
President Darrell K. Williams ’83 captured the spirit perfectly: “When Pirates invest in Pirates, we uplift entire communities and generations.”
The conference concluded with a soul-stirring cultural showcase by the Hampton University Choir and a powerful spoken-word salute to Black family resilience—reminding us that art remains a cornerstone of our collective strength.
As alumni, our charge is clear. The Student Emergency Fund stands ready to keep scholars on course when unexpected hardship strikes. Your gift, no matter the size, can be the lifeline that helps a Hampton student stay in class, graduate on time, and carry our legacy forward.
Visit nhaainc.org/the-student-emergency-fund today to invest in a future Pirate.
Be part of excellence. Be part of the change.
Pirates helping Pirates—yesterday, today, and for generations to come.
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