The Yard @ AfroTech 2026: Powered by Howard University

November 2-6 | Houston, TX

Howard University returns to AfroTech in 2026, continuing its commitment to expanding access, opportunity, and visibility for the HBCU community through The Yard @ AfroTech. Now in its third year, The Yard brings together students, alumni, faculty, industry leaders, and partners for meaningful connections, shared experiences, and conversations shaping the future of technology and innovation.

Students looking at a phone and networking at Afro Tech

Showcasing HBCU Innovation and Building Opportunities

Howard University returns to AfroTech 2026 for its third year leading The Yard @ AfroTech, continuing its multi-year partnership with Blavity. Led by the Howard University Center for Digital Business, The Yard @ is a signature initiative designed to expand opportunities for HBCU students, alumni, faculty, and industry partners to connect, collaborate, and contribute to the future of technology and innovation.

Through curated programming, cultural experiences, and strategic engagement, The Yard @ creates space to elevate HBCU talent and leadership, strengthen relationships, and unlock new opportunities across the broader HBCU ecosystem.

Where to Find Us at AfroTech 2026

Explore Howard University's activations and programming at AfroTech 2026, including interactive experiences, curated exhibitions, and opportunities to engage with HBCU leaders and innovators throughout the conference.

The Yard @ AfroTech Sponsored by Disney

Located near the entrance of the Expo Hall, The Yard @ AfroTech, sponsored by Disney, is a dedicated gathering space for the HBCU community to connect, collaborate, and build meaningful relationships.

Throughout the conference, The Yard will host interactive programming, networking opportunities, mentorship experiences, and conversations highlighting the talent, leadership, and contributions of HBCUs. Whether reconnecting with fellow alumni, meeting emerging innovators, or exploring new professional opportunities, attendees are invited to experience the energy and community of The Yard.

HBCU Alumni Reception

Join Howard University for an evening of connection, culture, and community at our HBCU Reception during AfroTech 2026.

Bringing together HBCU alumni, students, faculty, and industry professionals, the reception offers an opportunity to reconnect with familiar faces, build new relationships, and celebrate the collective strength of the HBCU community.

This event is free to attend. Registration is required.

Registration details coming soon.

Panel Discussion: Writing the Next Chapter of Black Prosperity

As technology reshapes industries and creates new possibilities for economic advancement, how can we ensure that today's opportunities translate into lasting prosperity for Black communities?

This conversation explores the relationship between institutional influence, economic opportunity, and generational wealth. From expanding access and shaping narratives to building ownership and financial independence, panelists will examine what it takes to turn Black talent and innovation into lasting economic impact.

Speakers

Brandon William Jones

Founder & CEO, Gravy Wealth; Howard University Alumnus

Frank Tramble

Vice President for Communications, Marketing and Public Affairs, Duke University

Dr. Kweli Zukeri wearing a colorful blue, green, yellow and black patterned shirt and smiling. Behind him is a rustic, red brick wall.

Moderator, Dr. Kweli Zukeri

Associate Vice President of Web Innovation & Strategy, Howard University

Across Generations Series: HBCU Perspectives on Careers, Technology, and Opportunity

How are careers, technology, and opportunities evolving across generations of HBCU graduates?

Across Generations brings Howard University students and alumni together for candid conversations about their experiences, career journeys, and perspectives on the future. Through two 30-minute discussions, speakers will reflect on what's changed, what remains constant, and what each generation can learn from the other.

Conversation 1 Speakers

Andrew Lindsay

Corporate Vice President of Cloud and AI Platforms Business Development, Microsoft; Howard University Trustee and Alumnus

Meliah Bell

Senior, Computer Information Systems, Howard University

Conversation 2

Danielle McIntosh, Vice President, Disney; Howard University Alumna
Naima Whitted, Disney Storytellers Scholar; Howard University Student

Why The Yard @ Afro Tech?

Three students, two wearing navy blue suits, white shirts and dark ties, and one wearing a navy blue shirt with dark slacks, smile and network among other attendees and conference booth displays.

Connect Talent and Opportunity

The Yard bridges HBCU excellence with industry access, creating pathways to move careers and ideas forward.

Allison Morgan Bryant, Ph.D. wearing a dark blue and white Howard University sweater with a red "H" and a white shirt, and a guest in a dark dress smile and hold microphones on a talk-show style set with a screen in the background printed with an image of The Yard at Howard University. Autumn orange trees, green grass, a flagpole and Founder's Library appear on the screen.

Center HBCU Voices

The Yard ensures HBCU expertise in tech, research and entrepreneurship is seen, heard, and valued at the center of the conversation.

Big crowd of smiling afrotech participants smiling and posing for the camera in the decorated conference hall.

Transform Connections Into Action

The relationships built here evolve into internships, partnerships, and ventures that drive lasting impact beyond AfroTech.

Support The Yard @ AfroTech 2026