Claflin students connect with employers at Fall Career Fair
By:
Sep 24, 2025
Kayla White of HES Facilities Management speaks with a Claflin student during the Fall Career Fair on Sept. 18 in the student center ballroom. (Panther photo by Rayquan Hankins)
Company focuses on strong relationships
By RAYQUAN HANKINS
Claflin University held its Fall Career Fair on Thursday, Sept. 18, in the student center ballroom.
The event, which ran from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., gave students a chance to meet employers, ask questions, and learn about job and internship opportunities.
One of the companies at the fair was HES Facilities Management, which provides cleaning, maintenance and groundskeeping services for schools and colleges.
Kayla White, director of business development for HES, said the company focuses on building strong relationships.
“HES understands the importance of relationships, not only with the colleges we serve, but also with the employees we hire,” White said.
HES employs more than 13,000 people across the country and manages over 200 million square feet of school facilities every day. The company offers jobs in areas like custodial services, building maintenance and landscaping.
Students said the fair was a helpful way to see what opportunities are out there. “It feels more real when you can actually talk to someone instead of just applying online,” Jalevina King said.
Adrienne Simmions, senior management major. (Panther photo by Makayla Harris)
Property management gets student interest
By MAKAYLA HARRIS
On Thursday, Sept. 18, Claflin University students gathered in the ballroom of the student center for the Fall Career Fair where over 20 firms spoke with students about internship and employment opportunities.
NHE Property Management, which specializes in conventional and affordable housing throughout South Carolina, was one of the businesses that caught the attention of the students. NHE representatives discussed open positions in property management with students, including those of leasing agents, which piqued their curiosity.
"The leasing agent position really appealed to me," said Adrienne Simmions, a senior management major. "I could definitely see myself doing that; it's about communication and helping people find a home."
Morgan Scott, an NHE spokesperson, said the organization seeks students who are organized, professional and people-oriented.
"We are thrilled to be here at Claflin,” Scott said. "Students here provide a lot of professionalism and energy.
“We're constantly searching for people who want to advance their careers or who are interested in real estate or property management.”
Businesses in the fields of health care, education and law enforcement were among the other employers present. Students had the opportunity to network, ask questions and even submit applications on the spot during the career fair, which took place from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
All students, including freshmen, were urged by Claflin's Office of Career Development to attend and begin networking.
Nigel Bradley, Mr. Orange and Maroon
Ambassador urges connecting with opportunity
By EVAN JENKINS
Mr. Orange and Maroon became a career ambassador at Claflin University’s Fall Career Fest on Thursday, Sept. 18, at the student center.
The event gave students direct access to job recruiters offering internships, full-time positions and graduate program opportunities. Students had the opportunity to practice professional communication, share resumes, and build confidence in a real-world setting.
Speaking as a designated career ambassador for the event, sophomore Nigel Bradley, Mr. Orange and Maroon, said he urged students to come prepared. Connecting with Fortune 500 companies does not happen every day.
"Having an opportunity handed to you and not being able to take advantage of it is the last thing you want," he said.
Eying his own career, Bradley said he was able to connect with the different companies at the event on a different level.
"I am confident that they arrived with a clear intention,” he said. “They came with the desire to acquire more of that exceptional Claflin talent."
Bradley said the companies, districts and programs genuinely care about the students at Claflin.
"They demonstrated interest and demonstrated their ability to take action,” he said. “They showed interest, and not only that, they proved that they take action.
“Many companies were able to name Claflin students whom they have hired or given internships.”
Bradley said he also attended the career fair hoping to gain connections in his field.
“As a STEM major, they often search for experience and knowledge in the field,” he said. “I made very valuable connections with representatives from companies in my field, received leads for internships and gained a vast amount of knowledge about all the companies in attendance.”
Bradley said he made valuable career connections at the career fest.
“What I took away from the Career Fair was my connection and internship leads with the representatives at Thermo Fisher Scientific and Santee Copper, with both companies offering career positions in my field,” he said.
The career fair was held in the student center ballroom. (Panther photo by Rayquan Hankins)
‘We can’t teach you to be a good person’
By GENESIS MILLER
Over 50 companies participated in Claflin University’s Fall Career Fair on Tuesday, Sept. 16.
Claflin hosted representatives from organizations such as local school districts, power and water suppliers, tourist agencies and museums to speak with students about fellowship, internship, and scholarship opportunities.
The representatives made it clear what kind of candidates they want to fill positions: Students who are passionate, open-minded and enthusiastic about the opportunity they apply for.
“We can teach you the skills, but we can’t teach you to be a good person. We are looking for people with a heart to serve,” a representative from Roper St. Francis Healthcare in Charleston said.
A representative of Santee Cooper public power provider said, “We can’t expect too much from students, but past experience does help in the selection process.”
Student Tacoya Heyward said the career fair was enjoyable. “I found a couple of interesting opportunities.”
A sophomore student who preferred to remain anonymous offered suggestions for upcoming career fairs. “A lot of these companies are local, but I would like to see more options from out-of-state.”
Claflin University student Darius Wright (left) stands with Sophia Brown of Calhoun County Public Schools during the career fair held Thursday, Sept. 15, 2025.
'Dependable, reliable, prepared'
By DARIUS WRIGHT
Claflin University students gathered in the student center ballroom on Thursday, Sept. 18, for the annual Fall Career Fair, an event designed to provide students with networking opportunities and pathways toward future employment.
The fair, which ran from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., featured representatives from schools, businesses and organizations across South Carolina and beyond.
“Students that are eager to learn, that have demonstrated that there are dependable, reliable, prepared and have the normal skills with hiring anyone,” she said.
Connecting talent with opportunity
By TAMIR MANNING
The air was buzzing with energy at the Claflin University Fall Career Fair, an opportunity for students to explore a range of internships and career prospects.
The event drew a diverse crowd, from freshmen to soon-to-graduate seniors, all hoping to take the next step toward their professional futures.
As Tamir Manning navigated the rows of company booths, his eyes landed on one that stood out — Allendale School District. He approached with curiosity, eager to learn more about this unique school system and what they had to offer.
"Hey, mind if I ask you a couple of questions?" Tamir said, smiling at the representative at the table.
The rep greeted him warmly, ready to dive into what Allendale is all about.
“Of course! This event is such a great platform for students like you to explore employment opportunities. Here at Allendale, we’re all about growth — both for our students and our staff.”
Tamir, notebook in hand, took a seat. "Tell me a little bit about the Allendale School System."
The representative explained, “Allendale is a smaller district, located in one of the tougher rural areas. We have less than 800 kids attending our schools. But that’s actually one of the things that makes us so unique. We’re able to offer a more intimate, nurturing environment where every child is truly seen and cared for. We’re also growing and always looking for fresh talent to join our team.”
"Sounds like a tight-knit community. What about incentives or growth opportunities?" Tamir asked, clearly interested.
"Definitely," the rep replied, nodding. "We offer a solid sign-on bonus and retention bonuses to make sure our team is well taken care of. Beyond that, there are countless opportunities to grow and promote yourself within the district. We believe in supporting our employees as they develop and take on leadership roles within the system."
Tamir was impressed. "That’s awesome. So, what kind of majors are you most interested in?"
"We mainly target education majors, of course, but we’re also open to a wide variety of other fields. Psychology, fine arts, mass communications — you name it," the rep said with a smile. "We’re always looking for people who are passionate about making a difference, whether in the classroom, through counseling, or in any number of ways that support our students."
Tamir took it all in, making mental notes about how Allendale’s mission and values aligned with his own goals.
"I really appreciate your time today. This has been super informative. I’ll definitely be keeping Allendale in mind!"
"Of course, Tamir! It was a pleasure talking with you. Don’t hesitate to reach out if you have more questions down the road," the representative said, handing him a business card. "Good luck with your career search!"
As Tamir walked away from the Allendale booth, he felt more confident than ever about the opportunities that lay ahead. The Claflin University Career Fair had been more than just an event — it was a chance to connect with organizations and individuals who shared the same passion forgot growth and development, no matter the field.
Photo via Instagram: @cu_careerdevelopment
Goal is to get companies from all areas
By TAHJE PRIOLEAU
Claflin University students filled the Student Center Ballroom B for the annual Career Fest, where dozens of employers offered internships and job opportunities.
The Office of Career Development hosted the event, with the main goal of having companies come to campus to offer internships for sophomores and juniors, and for seniors to be gainfully employed full-time after graduation.
“Our main goal in our mission of the Career Center is to be able to offer services to our students so that when they graduate, they will have some type of skills or a broadband job,” said Douglas Barnes, career counselor.
With 57 employers on campus, from health care and education to law enforcement and technology, the event offered something for every student.
“We tried to get companies from all areas,” Barnes said. “We try to get a little bit of everyone to the career fair.”
With 387 students in attendance out of about 1,800 enrolled, Claflin and the Office of Career Development are looking for ways to keep students engaged.
“We invited more faculty members to come bring their classes. Hopefully, we can get up between 400-425 students next time,” Barnes said.
Following the event, Barnes said employers gave good feedback, noting students were dressed professionally, were articulate, had their résumés ready and asked questions.
The Office of Career Development plans to hold the next career fest in February 2026 and encourages students to take advantage of the resources they provide.
DLA Energy offers opportunities that merge logistics, service, and humanitarian impact. (Panther photo by Crevon Brown)
Federal agency focuses on government service
By CREVON BROWN
Defense Logistics Agency Energy representatives were on hand at the Claflin Fall Career Fair to inform students about their agency and government service.
The event featuring more than 50 prospective employers was held Sept. 18 in the student center ballroom.
“We’re kind of like the Amazon for the government,” explained Pamela Furito, a career management specialist with DLA Energy. “We buy energy resources in bulk and distribute them to our government partners — from the Air Force and the Marines to other agencies like FEMA.
“Our mission is about making sure the fuel, the power, and the logistics are always ready,” Furito said.
DLA, part of the U.S. Department of Defense, ensures that military operations — and occasionally the response to national emergencies — run without disruption. While the agency’s primary responsibility is supporting warfighters, its global reach and logistical expertise extend into humanitarian relief efforts as well.
“We excel at getting resources to the people who need them most,” Furito said. “That might mean supporting troops overseas or stepping in after a natural disaster to deliver fuel for generators when the power is out. We’re strategically placed around the world so we can move quickly when there’s a crisis.”
Though DLA Energy does not engage directly in rebuilding communities, its role in supplying critical energy resources helps stabilize situations until longer-term solutions can be put in place.
Furito emphasized the importance of the agency’s flexibility and reach: “Because we have the ability, we’re always going to step in where we can — within our mission and the regulations we follow.”
For students and jobseekers considering careers in government, DLA Energy offers opportunities that merge logistics, service, and humanitarian impact.
As Furito put it, “It’s not just about fuel or electricity — it’s about supporting people in their most critical moments.”
(Panther photo by Camden Easley)
Fair is ‘major opportunity’
By CAMDEN EASLEY
Claflin University held its annual Fall Career Fair at the student center on Sept. 18.
The event brought together students, alumni and many employers representing fields such as health care, finance, government and technology.
Students had the chance to share resumes, practice networking and learn about internships and full-time positions. Recruiters from major companies spoke directly with participants about career paths.
“This fest is a major opportunity for our students to connect with employers and prepare for life after graduation,” said Tonyetta S. McDaniel, Claflin service learning/community service coordinator administrative assistant.
Erica Woods
Some students want more options
By SUMMER EDMOND
Claflin University hosted its 2025 Fall Career Fair on Wednesday, September 24, in the Student Center Ballroom B from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m.
The event brought together dozens of employers from across South Carolina and beyond, including BlueCross BlueShield, Dominion Energy, the FBI, TD SYNNEX and several county school districts. Students dressed in business professional attire as they networked, shared résumés and explored potential career paths.
Mass Communication major Erica Woods, who is minoring in marketing, said she appreciated the opportunity but hoped for more representation from industries connected to her field.
“I really enjoyed the fair. It was well put together and helpful,” Woods said. “But I noticed a lot of the booths catered to education majors. As a mass communication student, I wish there were more companies that aligned with my career interests, like media, marketing or public relations.”
While Woods acknowledged she still made useful connections, she sadid expanding the range of employers would make the event even more valuable for students outside of education and health care.
ThermoFisher rep Juvonna (right) is a Claflin alum.
Mentoring is part of career fair
By JAKIAH SCOTT
The Claflin University Fall Career Fair was held on Sept. 18 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m., in the student center ballroom, hosting over 50 corporations, offering scholarships, internships and jobs.
ThermoFisher Scientific is an African American global science organization that supplies tools, products and services for laboratories, health care, diagnostics, biotechnology and research. ThermoFisher representatives described each role, their reasons for working with the company and the goals they’re working toward.
ThermoFisher rep Juvonna, a Claflin alumna, said they go to different HBCUs, and because Claflin is her home, she planned to visit to advocate for African American students that are in the same position she was once in.
She described the career fair as “exciting.”
“Everybody has been so open. We haven’t just talked about jobs, we’ve been mentoring. That’s what we do,” she said. She described the students they met as “awesome, eager and knowing of what they want.”
The question was asked, “Why did ThermoFisher believe Claflin students would be a good fit for the company?”
Juvonna replied, “Because we are the best! I came from the best in the world. We’re eager and we want it. We rock!”
Event opens doors for students’ futures
By SARAH MILLER
Claflin University’s annual Fall Career Fair brought opportunity and inspiration to students from all majors as local, state and national organizations gathered to connect with the next generation of professionals.
Held in Jonas T. Kennedy Health and Wellness Complex, the career fair buzzed with energy as students in business attire made their way from booth to booth, networking with recruiters, asking questions and collecting information about internships and job opportunities.
“Today benefited me by allowing me to see different career goals and paths I can see in my near future,” White said.
Not every student came in with high expectations, but some walked away pleasantly surprised.
“Honestly, it gave me a different outlook,” said Latrice Brown, a fellow Claflin student. “I wasn’t actually interested in coming because these things make me nervous, but after talking [to recruiters], I was actually reassured. It gave me a lot of information I didn’t expect.”
While students appreciated the experience, some see a need for improvement.
“Maybe having more opportunities for all the majors that Claflin offers,” White suggested. “For business management, we had a good turnout. But for other majors, we need more variety.”
Brown agreed, adding a more social twist:
“I feel like maybe more activities — fun-wise — and also, I do agree with her. Make it more open. When I saw the whole school district [recruiting booths], it kinda made me wanna run. But after talking, I saw how in-depth it is. Maybe have different headliners and better major representation.”
One of the organizations at the fair was the Defense Logistics Agency, a federal agency known for offering extensive internship and career development programs.
Monica Louis, a recruiter with DLA, shared her excitement about returning to Claflin.
“We’re very excited to be here,” Louis said. “One of your alumni stays in tune, and a lot of leadership knows her name. Last year, we couldn’t visit due to the political climate, but now we’re back — and we hope to renew our partnership with Claflin.”
DLA’s internship program offers a two-year development track and provides real-world experience in federal logistics and supply-chain management.
“I’m the recruiter, but I also do the interviewing, onboarding and logistics,” Louis said. “Basically, the opposite of a career specialist.”