For the third year in a row, Epsilon, guided by its commitment to fostering diversity and inclusion, partnered with the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) as a sponsor of the annual Leadership Institute (TMCLFI) in Washington D.C.
TMCFLI is an award-winning national program intended to develop students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Predominantly Black Institutions (PBI). Over the course of the 4-day conference, the scholars developed their leadership skills, had the opportunity to network with various organizations representing a multitude of industries, and provided companies the ability to interview and present career opportunities to a talented and diverse student population.
With over 500 scholars in attendance, Epsilon built brand recognition through two interactive break-out sessions which educated students on the organization and Epsilon's Early Career Programs, engaged with students at the recruitment fair, and connected with a select number of attendees on a more personal level through a networking dinner.
Developing talent
“This was my first year attending the TMCF Leadership Institute and my expectations were exceeded from a talent perspective. I expected to meet smart students but I didn't realize how prepared they would be to meet us. TMCF did a great job preparing the students to show up at their best,” Duane La Bom, Vice President of Diversity and Inclusion shares on his experience as a first time attendee.
Year over year, the professionalism, broad range of industry experiences, and overall career readiness the scholars demonstrate continues to be impressive. While a number of students were interviewed at the conference in consideration for open Intern and New Grad opportunities, TMCFLI serves as a candidate pipeline for current and future Epsilon talent.
Full circle moments
Over the last 2 years, Epsilon has welcomed 8 New Grads to the organization that were met through the Thurgood Marshall Leadership Institute conference across, joining Epsilon across various office locations and areas of the business. This year, we had 3 TMCFLI alum attend the conference to represent Epsilon, this time on the other side of the table.
Brandi Roman, Client Coordinator and TMCFLI alum ’23 reflects on her time attending this year as an employer:
“Just last year, I attended this conference as a senior and uncertain about my future. Little did I know, this very event would lead me to my post-graduate home with Epsilon. I am immensely grateful for this full-circle moment and the chance to share my journey with students who are now standing in the shoes I wore only a year ago.”
In addition to Brandi, TMCFLI alumni Kendall Conley and Alleana Jacobs also joined Epsilon at the event; the insight they were able to provide students on their journey to Epsilon and their positive experience as participants in the New Grad Program was invaluable to students and left them wanting to know more.
Long lasting impact
At Epsilon, our mission is to cultivate an inclusive and collaborative workplace where diversity and equity thrive. Developing a diverse and inclusive talent pipeline allows us to unlock the full potential of our business, driving stronger relationships with our clients and communities.
Devonte Henderson, University Relations Coordinator shares that
“Attending this year's Thurgood Marshall event reinforced the importance of partnering with the foundation. The students came with extensive experience and skills that will contribute to Epsilon's innovative culture.”
Click here to learn more about DE&I at Epsilon and how we are contributing the communities we live and serve.