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Black College Con brings esports competition and career opportunities

Free Press staff report | 2/13/2025, 6 p.m.
Black College Con 2025 is bringing the excitement of gaming and esports to Virginia State University on Feb. 19, giving …
Students at Mississippi’s Jackson State University at a recent Black College Con event. The con comes to Virginia State University on Feb. 19 Photo courtesy of Black Collegiate Gaming Association

Black College Con 2025 is bringing the excitement of gaming and esports to Virginia State University on Feb. 19, giving students the chance to compete and connect with top industry professionals. 

The event, sponsored by The Black Collegiate Gaming Association, will provide a full day of action-packed competition, networking and mentorship opportunities for students looking to level up in the gaming world.

Scheduled from noon to 7 p.m., the event will give students the chance to meet with industry professionals from top gaming and esports companies, engage in meaningful conversations, and explore career possibilities. Throughout the day, students also will have the opportunity to compete for scholarships and prizes, which will help with college expenses and further their gaming careers.

The summit opens 10 a.m. with a video highlighting Black history in gaming and esports, followed by opening remarks and contest announcements. At 10:30 a.m., the keynote speaker (to be announced) will provide guidance for aspiring professionals.

A “Black Gamers Matter” panel will follow, featuring influential figures in gaming and esports who will discuss their careers and the importance of diversity in the industry.

The esports tournament will take place from 1 to 3 p.m., with students competing in Madden and Street Fighter. A total of 32 students will participate, and the tournament will be streamed live on Twitch @BCGAUSA. At 2:30 p.m., scholarships and awards will be presented to recognize standout performers from both the summit and tournament.

The Black Collegiate Gaming Association (BCGA) is a woman-owned organization dedicated to increasing diversity in collegiate esports and gaming. BCGA partners with HBCUs to provide students with access to learning and career opportunities in the technology industry. Founded in 2020 by Keshia Walker, BCGA’s mission is to help make the gaming industry more reflective of its customer base by supporting Black college students in their professional development.