Events
The HBCU Data Science Consortium hosts a variety of events
throughout the year, including:
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Annual Conference:
The Consortium's flagship event is an annual conference
that brings together HBCU students, faculty, and
professionals from the data science community. The
conference features keynote speakers, panel discussions,
and networking opportunities.
-
Professional Development Workshops:
The Consortium offers workshops on topics such as data
visualization, machine learning, and data ethics to help
members develop their skills and knowledge in data
science.
-
Webinars:
The Consortium hosts webinars on a regular basis that
cover a variety of data science topics and feature
industry experts as speakers.
Upcoming Events
HBCU-DSC September 2026 Salon Salon Speaker Series: Casey Ariel Diké
Join us for a powerful conversation with Casey Ariel Diké,
Founder and CEO of Blaze Group®, as she explores how HBCUs
can drive opportunity, research, and workforce development
through data‑driven financial innovation. Casey brings deep
experience in global finance and inclusive fintech, shaping
how data and capital flow through underserved communities.
This virtual session takes place on September 11, 2026 at 12
PM EST on Zoom. Don’t miss the chance to learn how HBCUs can
lead the next wave of fintech innovation and community
impact.
Recent Articles
Black students receive real-world experience with FICO challenge
Discover how Black students are gaining invaluable real-world experience through the FICO Challenge. This initiative empowers students with hands-on learning in data science and analytics, preparing them for impactful careers in the field.
Read Here
Drake State and Alabama A&M join FICO Analytics Challenge
Learn how Drake State and Alabama A&M are making strides in data science education by participating in the FICO Analytics Challenge. This collaboration offers students an opportunity to tackle real-world problems and enhance their skills in analytics and innovation.
Read Here
Developing The Next Generation Of Data Scientists
Discover insights from Dr. Scott Zoldi on nurturing future data scientists. Learn about the essential skills and innovative approaches shaping the next generation.
Read HerePast HBCU DSC Salon Series
HBCU DSC November 2025 Salon AI, Health Innovation, and Funding Opportunities.
Join us on November 14, 2025, for a focused virtual session
in our Salon Speaker Series exploring AI, Health Innovation,
and Funding Opportunities.
Our featured speaker, Mike Brizek of VentureWell, will
provide expert insights on turning your AI research into
high-impact, fundable projects. Learn what reviewers and
investors are looking for in successful health tech
proposals.
HBCU DSC November 2024 Salon Immersive Futures: The Power of VR and Data in Community Design
Jeremy Lawson, Co-Founder and CEO of Salynt Inc, will share insights on the VR experience Salynt has been working on and how it connects with data science and urban planning.
HBCU DSC June 2024 Salon Where to Start with Data Education Pillar
Join us for our summer salon session, where Mr. Walter Shields will be the guest speaker. Mr. Shields talk will focus on data science education. Walter Shields is the founder of the Walter Shields Data Academy. This session is free and held virtually.
Watch Now
HBCU DSC December 2022 Salon Building Academic Partnerships and Engaging with the National Security Agency
Steven D. Cook is a Research Directorate Academic
Partnership Advocate/Protagonist. Steven D. Cook has over 40
years of experience in the National Security Agency’s (NSA)
primary functional area, enabling a competitive advantage
for the Nation and our allies technically and analytically.
He is a proud alum of North Carolina A&T State University
and a Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity Incorporated life
member.
Karen D. Presley is the Deputy Director of the Office of
Research and Technology Applications at the National
Security Agency (NSA) where she leads a team of technology
transfer (T2) professionals that create partnerships to
accelerate the exchange of expertise between NSA and other
government agencies, academia, and industry.