Career Takeoff: NCCU Eagles Soar Beyond the Nest

The Career and Professional Development Center (CPDC) at North Carolina Central University (NCCU) is hosting the Career Signing Day Celebration and Gala on Wednesday, April 16, from 4-6 p.m. in the NCCU Student Center, a joyful tribute to students who have secured internships and full-time positions across a range of industries.

"This is a full-circle moment for our students and the CPDC," said Byron Dickey, assistant director of experiential learning. "The mission of the CPDC is to educate, empower and employ, and we know how important it is to honor these students for their efforts."

More than 25 students will be honored during the gala, with career placements spanning top-tier companies and research institutions. Among this year's honorees are William Taylor and Marbella Alvarenga-Cuchillas heading to Deloitte, Keon Davis joining JPMorgan Chase, Taniyah Alson participating in undergraduate cancer research at the University of North Carolina at Chapel Hill, and Ah-Breanna Smith beginning a pre-dental internship at UCLA.

"When others see their classmates being celebrated, they'll want to follow suit," Dickey said. "We envision this becoming a signature campus-wide event," he said. Future plans include transforming the celebration into an all-out gala comparable to the Met Gala or Oscars, with promotion kicking off in Fall 2025.

Through tailored support such as mock interviews, resume reviews and career fairs, the CPDC helps students build confidence and readiness for real-world challenges. Initiatives like Handshake, "Safe Space in the Workplace" and pop-up events have also proven vital in connecting students with employers.

"Internships often lead directly to full-time roles," Dickey said. "Our students gain hands-on experience that makes them highly employable by the end of their internship."

This year's celebration doesn't just honor achievement; it also cultivates aspiration. "Students should never be afraid to apply," Dickey said. "Throw a noodle at the wall and see if it sticks. Go after your dreams, visions and goals and if you need assistance, come visit us in suite 1200 of the NCCU Student Center."

With music, giveaways, and joyful recognition, the Career Signing Day Celebration honors the drive, diligence and dreams of NCCU's students.

So, to the NCCU community: Come out, show love and cheer on the future workforce. These Eagles are ready to fly.