Building Pipelines for HBCU Students in Entertainment – Life at Disney

As a proud graduate of Texas Southern University, a Historically Black College and University (HBCU) in Houston, David appreciates how his alma mater prepared him for his current role.

His role often requires attention to detail and effectively capitalizing on industry trends. “As an HBCU graduate, you understand the true meaning of perseverance,” David said. “Making do with what you have trains you to think outside of the box, to be innovative…it creates a hunger to be great.”

David, who describes himself as a “diamond in the rough,” continues to be empowered to achieve greatness through The Walt Disney Company’s growing commitment to HBCUs. Established in 2019, Disney on the Yard was created to cultivate a stronger network of HBCU professionals at Disney through events and sponsorship, mentorship and educational opportunities.

David, who was one of the first mentees in the Disney on the Yard Mentorship program, says initiatives like this provided him the opportunity he needed to prove he belonged. He also hopes other HBCU students will be able to benefit similarly in the future.

“The pipeline of HBCU talent to The Walt Disney Company has increased as the years pass, and I’m proud to be a part of the journey,” he said.

He advises other HBCU hopefuls who want to work at Disney to have confidence in their abilities, work hard, pray and, most importantly, build their professional network.

“It’s not about who you know,” David said. “It’s about who knows YOU.”