Contact: Crystal Drake, Office of Communications, Public Relations and Marketing
Dr. Mark A. Brown, president and CEO, joined a dynamic mix of innovative thought leaders this week at the 2025 HOPE Global Forums annual meeting in Atlanta, where this year’s theme “Future Proofing” was the perfect opportunity to share ways that Tuskegee University is not just responding to change—it is shaping it.
On a panel focused on “future-proofing” some of the nation’s most trusted institutions to prepare for ongoing disruption, Dr. Brown joined Gigi Ligons, Director of Scores Client Services Group for FICO, and Marion Phillips III, Senior Vice President for Community Development for US News & World Report, in a conversation moderated by Ambassador Charles Shapiro, President, The World Affairs Council of Atlanta.
“By integrating AI into learning, expanding STEM and aviation programs, fostering entrepreneurship, and prioritizing career readiness, Tuskegee is future-proofing its students for success in a dynamic global economy,” said Dr. Brown. “In Tuskegee’s Renaissance Era, we are equipping our students to compete as leaders who graduate career-ready for high-demand sectors.”
Dr. Brown shared how Tuskegee is blending some four-year degrees with two-year technical certifications to prepare students for leadership and research roles as well as certifications for rapid entry into high-demand fields including aviation maintenance, renewable energy systems, culinary arts and advanced manufacturing.
“Preparation for this balanced workforce ecosystem remains the #TheTuskegeeWay - envisioned by our founding principal Booker T. Washington and so keenly applicable today,” said Dr. Brown.
The HOPE Global Forums, through Operation HOPE, bring together a community of leaders in a series of thought leadership events, digital engagement, research and public policy advocacy to reimagine the global economy so the benefits and opportunities of free enterprise are extended to everyone.
With over 5,200 delegates representing 40 countries, the Hope Global Forums annual meeting is now the largest gathering in the world on behalf of empowering poor and underserved communities.
© 2025 Tuskegee University
