An HBCU education is truly a privilege. It provides a priceless atmosphere for students of color to receive a solid education while instilling unapologetic confidence. In the current national climate of heightened racial tensions, a volatile political environment, and an impression that most are only out to help themselves, we are thrilled to celebrate how 30 passionate young minds took their HBCU foundation and made history.
Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) produce more than a quarter of all African-American graduates in the country and are responsible for producing many of the nation’s black leaders. Iconic civil rights leaders, doctors, religious leaders, bankers, writers, Olympians, lawyers, musicians, engineers, actors, humanitarians, professional athletes, educators, scientists, and politicians have been educated at HBCUs.
Every year, the HBCU Top 30 Under 30 honors talented young men and women who are making remarkable strides in a variety of industries including sports, STEM, entertainment, media, business, public service and fashion. Among this year’s nominees are a star female rapper, an agile NFL quarterback, a community activist bringing fresh produce to the inner city, and a viral YouTube influencer. Check out the former classes here.
This year, with a record-breaking amount of nominations, we are exceptionally proud to present the 5th HBCU Top 30 Under 30 class. Congratulations to the young leaders who have been recognized, and congratulations to the esteemed HBCUs that have indisputably provided a strong and lasting foundation for the leaders of today and tomorrow.
8Ehijele E. Olumese | Hampton University
Ehijele E. Olumese is a Los Angeles-based Cyber Security Engineer from Largo, Maryland. Although he still does work with top-tier companies, he also founded his own cyber security company.
Elijele started his education studying Computer Science at Hampton University. His next move was obtaining his Masters in Information Security, Policy, and Management from Carnegie Mellon University. He started studying law at Southwestern College in LA, and will go on to receive his law degree in 2020 from Georgetown Law School. He holds several certifications including for the Information System Security (CISSP) and Ethical Hacker Certification (CEH).
Elijele has taken his talents to some very esteemed companies. In his current role as Senior Cyber Security Engineer with The MITRE Corporation, he is leading a $1.7 billion-dollar development effort. His team of engineers are performing vulnerability and risk assessments on the United States military’s next generation of GPS receivers, checking that they comply with federal regulations. Prior to that role, Ehijele worked with the Department of Homeland Security, Carnegie Mellon University and more.
The world is so dependent on technology, a trend that won’t slow down anytime soon. Olumese’s company The Cyber Security Intellects was created to make cyber security more palatable to the public by connecting technology and pop culture. Those at the company strive to engage and educate the public, as well as inspiring the next generation of cyber security professionals. Ehijele hopes to use his expertise to promote public awareness and interest in the importance of cyber security and data privacy. Follow Ehijele E. Olumese on Instagram and Twitter.
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Eeeeeee-Yip! So pRHOud of the work my SoRHOr and Bestfriend is doing! Keep it up! You inspire us all.