February is Black History Month, and we are proud to highlight a few of the Black professionals making a difference at Mead & Hunt. Meet Javon, Stephen, and Iesha, graduates of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) across the country.
- Javon Barrett, Transportation Engineer, Morgan State University
- Stephen Howard, Construction Inspector, Howard University
- Iesha Roberson, Architectural Intern, Tuskegee University
We sat down with Javon, Stephen, and Iesha to discuss the positive impacts and unique opportunities their HBCU college experience gave them. Check out their answers to learn more about their backgrounds and a few fun facts.
What’s something that made your college experience special?
Javon Barrett: Something that made my college experience special was the time and effort extended by professors to help support us in the Transportation Systems Engineering program. I do not think I would be in the position I am in today without the immense support that came from my professors in my degree program.
Stephen Howard: Going to school in Washington D.C. was an experience in and of itself, especially for a kid from Texas. In D.C., Black history was 365 days a year. When I stepped on campus, I knew this was where I belonged. Interacting with people from all over the world was amazing. I experienced college as a student, a National Society of Black Engineers member, a football player, a mentor in Upward Bound, a student government candidate, a band member, and a participant in Greek Life. Having Colin Powell as Commencement speaker and meeting Nelson Mandela are experiences I’ll never forget.
Iesha Roberson: There is no experience like it. This is honestly a second family–it’s more intimate and we all know each other. Being a part of a community of people who all have a common goal and having the same struggles gave me a boost of confidence. When you walk around the campus you are surrounded by constant examples of the history and outcomes of historic trailblazers like Robert R. Taylor, the first Black architect, plus other reminders of why we celebrate Black History. It was exciting to know the academic legacy of those who came before, and I still draw inspiration from them.
How has graduating from an HBCU shaped you and your career?
Javon Barrett: Graduating from an HBCU has significantly impacted both me and my career journey. I have learned lots about community, resilience, and cultural awareness, values that have been crucial in overcoming obstacles and forging meaningful connections in my professional endeavors.
Stephen Howard: Being exposed to a diversity of people of color is a key asset in dealing with and speaking with people and coworkers. Respecting and learning how to talk to people was a constant lesson both in and out of the classroom: learning how to treat people; understanding that giving up is never an option and that doing my best is the best practice.
Iesha Roberson: It provided exposure to what the definition of diversity really was and informed me of our potential and possibilities once we were given the opportunity to excel. It was an academic setting with other like-minded students of color that were motivated to not only achieve academic goals, but also make positive impacts on our communities beyond academic success.
What’s something your colleagues may not know about you?
Javon Barrett: Something my colleagues may not know about me is that I like to watch anime in the original Japanese voice acting with English subtitles.
Stephen Howard: Comedian Marlon Wayans is both a friend and a member of our 1990 Freshman Class at Howard.
Iesha Roberson: During my time at Tuskegee I was in the choir and performed at a variety of events, including meeting some historical figures such as the Tuskegee Airman, Jesse Jackson, and celebrity alumni like Lionel Richie.