A Dream Deferred | HBCU Conference 2026
Highlights: 2026 A Dream Deferred and HBCU Conferences
On March 16–18, educators from across the country met in Philadelphia, PA, for the 2026 A Dream Deferred™ and Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Conferences. The three-day, co-occurring gatherings, held at the Philadelphia Marriott Downtown, centered on increasing access and opportunity for African American students.
Here are this year’s highlights:
800+ Attendees
Hundreds of attendees got opportunities to hear from distinguished African American thought leaders, network with fellow educators, and learn how to support African American students.
More than 60% of attendees came from K−12 schools and districts, while nearly 40% represented higher education and other institutions. Various professional areas were represented, including administration, admissions, counseling, financial aid, and instruction and assessment. The top five states represented included California, Pennsylvania, Illinois, Maryland, and New York.
170+ Speakers and Presenters
A Dream Deferred and HBCU Conferences gave educators a platform to present effective strategies that address the needs of African American students. This year’s conference featured 4 main stage sessions, 70+ concurrent presentations and panels, and various networking opportunities—including Spotlight Sessions, the HBCU College Fair for Professionals, and the Conference Social.
The Power of Access: An Art Exhibit
The conferences exhibit, The Power of Access: Black Education in Philadelphia, explored how Black Philadelphians built and sustained educational institutions across centuries—transforming access to learning into a foundation for leadership, social mobility, and self-determination.
Trailblazers on the Main Stage
The main stage was host to African American luminaries and innovators across industries—from national arenas to National Geographic, from the voice of a bestseller to the minds in the technology classroom.
While each main stage presentation varied in content, they collectively highlighted three core tenets of College Board’s A Dream Deferred and HBCU Conferences: relevance (delivering meaningful coursework), reach (expanding access and opportunity), and readiness (ensuring students are well prepared for the future).
Dr. Elias Rodriques, assistant professor of African American literature at Sarah Lawrence College (left), interviews Esi Edugyan, bestselling author and essayist (right).
Tara Roberts, National Geographic explorer in residence and storyteller, speaks to the audience.
College Board CEO David Coleman (left), talks about advancing literacy and financial education with Justin Tuck, former All-Pro NFL player and managing director at Goldman Sachs (right).
