BBSA visited top organizations, including CDW and the Illinois Board of Examiners, and welcomed professionals from the Greenwood Project and the National Association of Black Professional Organizers (NABPO) to discuss career opportunities and their respective missions.
Our Business 101 series brings entrepreneurs to campus to share real stories, practical advice, and step-by-step guidance on how to start, manage, and grow a successful business. It’s a space to learn directly from those who’ve done it—perfect for aspiring business owners and innovators.
In collaboration with NABPO, this event helped students organize their academic and personal lives. Attendees won dorm makeovers, gift cards, and free products from The Container Store and Neat Method.
Our members traveled to Washington, D.C., for the National Black MBA Association’s conference and even went international, studying abroad in China. We also attended TechChicago, thanks to the College of Business, expanding our connections in the tech industry.
The Black Business Student Association (BBSA) proudly dedicated time and energy to making a difference in the community through meaningful volunteer work. Members generously volunteered at Barb Food Mart, helping provide food and essential supplies to local families facing food insecurity. Their efforts supported the Mart’s mission of ensuring every family has access to nourishment, especially during challenging times.
In addition, BBSA partnered with Cards for Hospitalized Kids, a national nonprofit organization that delivers uplifting, handmade cards to children in hospitals across the country.
Through an exciting partnership with Campus Trendsetters, the Black Business Student Association (BBSA) had the unique opportunity to collaborate with the iconic beauty brand Sol de Janeiro for a vibrant campus marketing campaign. Focused on promoting self-care, confidence, and body positivity, the campaign encouraged students to embrace their individuality and practice self-love through uplifting, sensory experiences.
BBSA members played a key role in bringing the campaign to life on campus, engaging students with curated product samples, hosting interactive events, and sparking conversations around wellness and self-expression. The collaboration not only spotlighted Sol de Janeiro’s signature scents and skincare products but also aligned seamlessly with BBSA’s mission of empowering students and fostering a supportive, inclusive environment.
As part of its commitment to student success, the Black Business Student Association (BBSA) hosted a professional development event designed to help students put their best foot forward in today’s competitive job market. The event offered affordable professional headshots, along with free makeup touch-ups and lineups at an affordable rate, ensuring participants looked and felt confident for their professional profiles and career opportunities.
This initiative recognized the importance of first impressions—especially on platforms like LinkedIn and in application materials such as resumes and digital portfolios. By providing access to high-quality grooming and photography services, BBSA aimed to eliminate common barriers students face in preparing for internships, interviews, and networking events.