Saint Augustine’s University (SAU) is proud to celebrate the exceptional achievements of its students who participated in the DevCon 2024 professional development conference, sponsored by the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF). The conference, held from March 6-10 in Baltimore, Maryland, provided unparalleled professional development, leadership, and networking opportunities.

“The achievements of our students at DevCon 2024 exemplify the dedication and resilience that resonate within the foundation of Saint Augustine’s University,” said SAU Interim President Dr. Marcus H. Burgess. “We are immensely proud of their success and confident that they will continue to serve as trailblazers and leaders, not just for themselves, but for their communities and the world.”

The program aimed to scale TMCF talent identification services, create pathways for historically marginalized students, advance diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI), and equip partners with best practices for recruiting and leading diverse talent. SAU students participated in the conference and excelled in various facets of the program, showcasing their leadership and scholarly abilities.

SAU had seven students at the conference, each of whom demonstrated exemplary dedication and talent. Ali Da-Costa Paul, Andrea Diaz, Ana Nuñez, Ryan Spruill, LeDrico McCullough, Devin Nixon, and Nyia Howard represented SAU.

Devin Nixon was honored as a speaker at this year’s DevCon after receiving a Wells Fargo Scholarship last year and securing a prestigious Medtronic Internship this summer. His participation in the opening ceremony on March 6 inspired all attendees as he shared his transformative experience at DevCon, highlighting its profound impact on shaping him as an individual and scholar.

“[The night of the opening ceremony] was a profound moment in my journey as I had the incredible opportunity, graciously bestowed upon me by the divine, to share my personal testimony and shed light on the lives of over 500 students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) at the 2024 TMCF DevCon Conference,” said Nixon in a post from his Instagram account. “It was heartwarming to witness the impact my story had on individuals, as many approached me afterwards, their eyes alight with newfound inspiration and gratitude.”

On the final day of the program, SAU students’ achievements continued to shine. LeDrico McCullough was awarded a $5,000 scholarship, presented by Michelle Bridgerton Williams, recognizing his outstanding commitment to academic excellence and leadership. Ryan Spruill was selected as one of the 10 TIAA B2B Scholars, affording him the opportunity to embark on a six-week virtual program, a testament to his remarkable potential and capability. 

The participation and triumphs of SAU students at DevCon 2024 highlight their exceptional capabilities and the university’s commitment to fostering leadership, scholarship, and inclusivity. The Thurgood Marshall College Fund’s sponsorship and support have played a pivotal role in empowering these students, enabling them to thrive and make a lasting impact.

Click here to learn more about TMCF’s DevCon Professional Development Conference.