Over 300 student representatives from around the country attended the 3rd annual HBCU Think Tank hosted by N.C. Central University’s SGA from Thursday to Sunday.

The visiting students were welcomed Thursday by NCCU student groups and organizations including the Bon Vivant Fashion Society, the Worship and Praise Inspirational Mass Choir, junior varsity cheerleaders, House Arrest II and fraternities.

The Think Tank theme was “Empowerment Through Leadership: Preparing Our Young Black Leaders For Tomorrow.”

Twenty schools were represented including Shaw, Lincoln, Tennessee State, Winston-Salem State, Fayetteville State, Alabama A&M, Xavier, Norfolk State, Allen and Central Piedmont Community College.

Other schools attending included Charles R. Drew University of Los Angeles, Langston, Morgan State, Saint Augustine, Bennett, Wilberforce, Claflin, Voorhees and N.C. A&T.

Friday and Saturday were full of social activities and sessions discussing topics involving leadership, race relations and education.

Some of the sessions were “Bridging the Gap: Student Leaders and Administration,” “Is Your Race Your Crutch” and “The Power of the HBCU Vote.”

“I attended the session discussing the future of Greek life and it was a wonderful networking experience,” said Tenesha Weaks, history education senior.

Special guests included Tavis Smiley, Cee Cee Michaela and 9th Wonder.

The event ended on Sunday with an inspirational service at Kings Park International Church.

The HBCU Think Tank originated on the campus of Tennessee State University by Jamie Riley in 2002.

Riley, now a graduate of TSU, was inspired to create an outlet for young African Americans to discuss different issues plaguing the black community after attending a conference at Bowie State during his sophomore year.

“I saw a lot of talent not being used,” said Riley.

The HBCU Think Tank has been hosted by TSU for the past two years.

After both Howard University and NCCU expressed an interest in hosting the 2004 HBCU Think Tank, Riley decided that NCCU would be the best place.

“Even though there were some obstacles, great strides were made towards the growth of the HBCU community,” said Timothy Gibson, SGA vice president of event management.

Riley hopes an organization will commit to keep the event going.

“It was a big success and I am very pleased with the turnout,” said Kian Brown, SGA president.

“I can truly say the participants left empowered, and that was our goal.”

A decision should be made very soon concerning who will host the 2005 HBCU Think Tank.