Morehouse College Announces The 4th Annual Dream Makers Summit

On Tuesday, April 21, 2026, Morehouse College will host the 4th Annual Dream Makers Summit, a dynamic, daylong experience designed to showcase student scholarship, elevate alumni voices, and connect innovation with opportunity. Held at the Shirley Massey Executive Conference Center, the summit will bring together students, faculty, alumni, and industry leaders for a powerful exchange of ideas.

The Dream Makers Summit continues to serve as a cornerstone event for academic excellence at Morehouse, highlighting the intellectual curiosity and research prowess of its students across disciplines. From STEM and social sciences to business, humanities, and the arts, attendees will experience a vibrant showcase of student-led inquiry and creativity.

The day begins with opening remarks at 9:30 a.m., setting the tone for a series of engaging presentations and discussions. Students will take center stage during two rounds of lightning presentations and poster sessions, offering concise and compelling insights into their research and academic pursuits.

Schedule of Events

• 9:30 – 9:40 a.m. – Opening Remarks
• 9:40 – 10:20 a.m. – Student Lightning Presentations I (STEM & Social Sciences)
• 10:30 – 11:50 a.m. – Student Poster Presentations I
• 12:00 – 12:50 p.m. – Lunch and Learn Sessions
• 1:00 – 2:15 p.m. – Student Poster Presentations II
• 2:30 – 3:45 p.m. – Student Lightning Presentations II (Business, Humanities, & Performances)
• 4:00 – 5:00 p.m. – Alumni Panel Discussion
• 5:15 – 5:45 p.m. – Closing Remarks

Industry Connections Through Lunch and Learn

A highlight of the summit is the Lunch and Learn sessions, where students engage directly with leading organizations and companies. This year’s participating partners include JPMorgan Chase, Southern Company, U.S. Bank, AbbVie, Vanderlande, the Center for Black Entrepreneurship, and The Leadership Alliance.

These sessions provide invaluable exposure to career pathways, internships, and mentorship opportunities, reinforcing Morehouse’s commitment to preparing students for leadership in a global society.

Alumni and Insight

The Alumni Panel Discussion will feature accomplished Morehouse graduates who are shaping industries and driving innovation:

• Javarro Edwards ’92, Founder of JME Group
• Thomas Searles ’05, Associate Professor at the University of Illinois Chicago and President of the National Society of Black Physicists
• Julien Turner ’20, Co-Owner of Dreadhead Films and Art Director at Abercrombie & Fitch
• Shawn Wilkinson ’14, Founder of Storj Labs and angel investor

Together, they will offer perspectives on entrepreneurship, innovation, and navigating emerging industries.

The summit will also spotlight the role of artificial intelligence in shaping the future. This timely discussion will explore how AI is transforming research, business, and creative industries, aligning with Morehouse’s forward-thinking academic vision.

As the fourth installment of this growing tradition, the 2026 Dream Makers Summit promises to inspire, connect, and elevate the next generation of scholars, innovators, and changemakers.