An Inspiring Day at Virginia State University: 2025 Student Leadership Conference

A few weeks ago, I had the incredible privilege of attending the 2025 Student Leadership Conference at Virginia State University. This day-long career development event was nothing short of transformative—not only for the undergraduate business students who participated but also for everyone who had the honor of engaging with them.

The conference brought together a group of 20 remarkable mentors, many of whom are decorated U.S. military officers. Among them were Retired Colonel Sarah Simmons and Dr. Veronica Green, a retired Lt. Colonel—both of whom exemplify leadership and service. Their insights were invaluable, and their presence alone was a source of inspiration for everyone in attendance.

Adding to the significance of the day, my father, Dr. Charlie Hill—a proud VA State graduate and the visionary behind the Hill Fellows Leadership Program—delivered the closing address to the students. Watching him speak to these young leaders was an incredibly proud moment for me.

Meeting the Next Generation of Leaders

One of the highlights for me was spending time with the students—especially the Hill Fellows, who stood out in their sharp orange blazers. Their energy, professionalism, and enthusiasm were infectious. It was such a breath of fresh air to engage with them, hear their aspirations, and witness their commitment to growth and excellence.

Students like Mekji Johnson and David Lomax made a lasting impression on me with their poise and professionalism. Their follow-up notes—sent within 24 hours—earned them a well-deserved gold star in my book! It’s this kind of initiative and drive that reassures me about the future of leadership in the United States.

The Bitcoin Connection

To my surprise and delight, there was a significant interest in Bitcoin and careers in the Bitcoin space. This opened the door for me to share my passion for Bitcoin and to gift several students copies of my book, The Bitcoin Leap. It’s always rewarding to see young minds eager to explore emerging industries and embrace innovation.

I also had the opportunity to connect with Dr. Emmanuel Omotayo, the Dean of the Business School, about The Bitcoin Leap. Our conversation reinforced my belief in the importance of bridging the gap between traditional education and forward-thinking technologies.

Why Supporting Young Leaders Matters

Now more than ever, I feel an urgent sense of responsibility to support the next generation of leaders. These students are stepping into a world filled with both unprecedented challenges and opportunities. By mentoring, sharing knowledge, and creating pathways for growth, we can empower them to lead with integrity, courage, and vision.

The 2025 Student Leadership Conference was a reminder of how transformative mentorship and community can be. It reaffirmed my belief that investing in young leaders is one of the most impactful things we can do for the future. To the Hill Fellows, the students I met, and all the mentors who shared their wisdom: thank you for an unforgettable day. Let’s continue to nurture and inspire the leaders who will shape tomorrow.