Lindner to host 14th annual APNET symposium gala

African Professionals Network provides opportunities for education, community-building

The Carl H. Lindner College of Business will welcome the African Professionals Network’s (APNET) 14th annual symposium gala on Saturday, Nov. 2.

Founded in 2010, APNET is a nonprofit that promotes and facilities opportunities for education, community and celebrating excellence for members and allies of the African diaspora in the United States. The 2024 symposium features keynote speakers, a silent auction and African cuisine, as well as a fashion show with cultural designs and performances by University of Cincinnati students. Award winners and scholarship recipients will also be honored.

Three APNET attendees in African dress.

APNET 2023 symposium attendees. Photo provided.

Open to the public, the symposium unites professionals, business and community leaders, and those passionate about the experiences of the African diaspora. Tickets and sponsorships are available for purchase. Doors will open at 4:30 p.m. on Nov. 2, with the program beginning at 5 p.m. Dress code is business professional or African attire.

Keynote speakers include Peter Akwaboah, executive vice president and chief operating officer, Fannie Mae; Steve Driehaus, founding partner, Good Government Group; and Siobhan Taylor, president/CEO, DePaul Cristo Rey High School. Lindner Dean Marianne Lewis, PhD, will deliver the symposium’s opening remarks.

Prince Ellis, MS ’18, PhD, an associate professor of economics and finance at UC Clermont and an adjunct faculty member at Lindner, is the co-founder and president of APNET. Ellis is on the organization’s executive board, as is Amanda Bock, a career coach for Lindner Career Services. Charles Appeadu, PhD, associate professor-educator of finance, is on APNET’s advisory board.

“With Charles Appeadu and Amanda Bock serving on APNET boards, and the collaborative efforts of Lindner International Programs and UC International — which worked with myself and Charles to launch the first study abroad program in Ghana — it’s clear that Lindner is dedicated to championing diversity and creating opportunities for students,” Ellis said. “This spirit of inclusion is why international students have proudly made Lindner their home. We’re excited to celebrate this shared vision at the symposium.”

Featured image at top: APNET 2023 symposium attendees. Photo provided.

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