Empowerment Career Initiative Conference Returns to Brookdale With Keynote Kevin Powell

Empowerment Career Initiative Conference Returns to Brookdale Feb. 27, 2026, Expanding Longstanding Minority Male Initiative Mission

Brookdale Community College will host the Empowerment Career Initiative (ECI) Conference on Friday, February 27, 2026, from 8:30 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. in the Student Life Center, Upper Level, Navesink Rooms.

Previously known as the Minority Male Initiative, the annual conference, launched in 2015, has been reintroduced as ECI to reflect an expanded focus on empowering all Brookdale students and Monmouth County high school juniors and seniors to explore career pathways, strengthen academic success, and build professional connections. 

The conference theme, “The Power of Community and Me,” underscores ECI’s commitment to helping students identify their goals, develop leadership skills, and connect with regional professionals and organizations that offer internships, mentorships, and hands-on career experiences. This year’s conference will feature a special guest keynote address by Grammy-nominated author, activist, and speaker Kevin Powell, whose work and message center on leadership, identity, and the transformative impact of community.

Hosted through a longstanding partnership between Brookdale and the Monmouth/Ocean Panhellenic Council, ECI is designed to promote college success, educate students about diverse career options, and introduce attendees to leaders across multiple industries. 

Career Zones Featured

• STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math)
• Mainframe Computing & Communications Media (Broadcasting, TV Production, Graphic Design, Journalism, Animation)
• Health Science (Physical Therapy, Nursing, Physician, Athletic Training, Occupational Therapy, Radiology)
• Business & Social Science (Entrepreneurship, Accounting, Management, Finance, Marketing, Social Work, Education, Criminal Justice)
• Show Business & Entertainment (Theater, Film, Television, Acting, Play/Screenwriting, Stage & Film Directing)

What Students Will Gain

• Firsthand insight from professionals across five career zones
• Information on scholarships, internships, and career opportunities
• Tools for academic success, self-empowerment, and personal development
• Meaningful connections to support educational and career goals

Lunch will be provided. Parking is available in Lots 6 or 7.

Scholarship Opportunities

Students who register for the ECI Conference are eligible to apply for exclusive Brookdale scholarships designated for conference participants. Applications must be submitted at the conference or mailed before the event.

Questions about scholarships or registration:
Lisa Savage, lsavage@brookdalecc.edu

Contact

For additional information, visit the website or contact Dr. Fidel Wilson at fwilson@brookdalecc.edu
or 732.224.2558.