Winter Career Day Enlightens, Energizes

In January, nearly 100 Posse Atlanta Scholars were in attendance for Winter Career Day, hosted and sponsored by the Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta.

Federal Reserve Bank of Atlanta President and CEO Dennis Lockhart kicked off the event with welcoming remarks, followed by a keynote address from Derreck Kayongo, CEO of the Center for Civil and Human Rights.

Participating Scholars chose from a selection of professional development breakout sessions, leadership talks, and Career Program partner showcases. Advisory Board members Jeff Abbott (Infor), Beth Lowry (Holder Construction), and Jonathan Parris (U.S. Trust) spoke on a Scholar-moderated executive leadership panel.

Posse Atlanta Leadership Council member Tamika Curry Smith (Mercedes Benz USA) facilitated a breakout session entitled, “Leading with Authenticity: Strategies for Success in Work and Life.”

Chris Bunting, a freshman at Boston University majoring in biology, expressed an appreciation for the engaging, personal approach taken by the day’s speakers. “They presented a more holistic view of possible career paths that was very energizing,” he said.

CJ Robinson, a senior at Syracuse University, said: "I really enjoyed the mock interview; it helped me become more aware of what I need to work on to get the job."

In all, the event engaged 53 volunteers from Posse Atlanta’s advisory board, leadership council and Career Program partners, including representatives from CBRE, Chick-fil-A, City Year, PwC, Georgia Power, Goldman Sachs, Travelers and Turner Broadcasting System.