We The People: The 2024 State of Black Design Conference

General Information

Career Fair: March 14, 2024
Conference: March 15-16, 2024
Location: Tennessee State University, John A Merritt Boulevard, Nashville, Tenn.

Website: TheSOBD.com

Late Registration: Donation Site!

Registration for the conference closed at noon on March 14, but it is still possible to register by going to this “donation” site. If you “make a donation” at the cost of the kind of registration you want to make and send a copy of the donation to Eric.Ligon@unt.edu, you can still register. Please add “registration” in the “Additional information about your gift” box.

Registration is $495 per person
Faculty registration is $275
Student registration is $100

Hotel Recommendations

Omni Hotel, Downtown
Gaylord Opryland Hotel
Hilton Garden Inn
Millenium Maxwell House Hotel, near TSU

Welcome to a groundbreaking and inspiring event at Tennessee State University – the 2024 State of Black Design Conference. This gathering celebrates Black design and is a unique opportunity for design enthusiasts, professionals, and students to unite. We invite you to be a part of this transformative experience.

Discover the Power of Black Design

This conference delves deep into Black design and its impact on various industries. Renowned speakers and panelists will share their experiences, insights, and success stories, providing you with valuable knowledge and inspiration. Explore the influence of Black designers in fields such as fashion, architecture, graphic design, and more.

For All Levels of Design Enthusiasts

Whether you’re a seasoned designer with a thriving career or just starting your design journey, this event offers something for everyone. Engage in hands-on workshops to enhance your skills, connect with like-minded individuals, and build valuable relationships within the design community. This is your chance to learn, grow, and connect with a diverse and talented group of designers.

Why Attend?

1. Inspirational Speakers: Gain insights from leading Black designers and industry experts.

2. Interactive Workshops: Expand your skillset with hands-on workshops.

3. Networking Opportunities: Connect with fellow design enthusiasts and professionals.

4. Career Fair: Explore job opportunities and connect with prospective employers.

5. Portfolio Reviews: Receive valuable feedback to enhance your portfolio.

6. Book Fair and Signing: Meet authors and discover essential design literature.

7. Corporate Activations: Learn about the latest innovations from top companies.

8. K-12 Design Workshops: Inspire the next generation of Black designers.

Hybrid Experience

For the first time, the State of Black Design Conference is going hybrid. In-person activities will be hosted at Tennessee State University, an HBCU, where over 500 students, designers, academics, and professionals will come together. Additionally, we will have a vibrant live-streaming community of attendees worldwide, making this event accessible to a global audience.

Be Part of the Movement

The State of Black Design Conference 2024 is more than just an event; it’s a movement shaping the future of design. We are dedicated to increasing the representation of Black professionals in the design industry, and your presence at this conference helps us achieve that goal.

Registration, Donations, and Merchandise

1. Registration: Secure your spot today by registering for the conference. Early registration ensures you won’t miss out on this exceptional experience.

2. Donations: If you are passionate about supporting Black designers and want to contribute to our cause, consider donating. Your generosity will help us continue our mission.

3. Merchandise: Explore our exclusive event merchandise designed by Black artists. Your purchases provide you with stylish items and support the conference’s initiatives.

Don’t miss this incredible opportunity to celebrate and elevate Black design. Join us at the State of Black Design Conference 2024 and be part of a movement that is shaping the future of design. We look forward to seeing you there! 

Register Now!

Click the link below to describe your registration category. The link will take you to a payment portal through the University of North Texas.

In-Person Attendance

Holiday Sale — through Jan. 2: $395

Early Bird Rate — through Jan. 19: $445

Regular Registration: Jan. 20: $495

Educators: $275

Student: $100

Online Attendance

Previous Professional Attendees VIrtual: $50

Regular Rate Virtual: $75

Educators/Students Virtual: $25

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CVAD Mission: Cultivating creative talent and critical minds within a collaborative and caring environment.

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UNT is an accredited institutional member of the National Association of Schools of Art and Design, 11250 Roger Bacon Drive, Suite 21, Reston, VA 20190-5248, phone: 703-437-0700; fax: 703-437-6312; email: info@arts-accredit.org.