The 2016 Bridging the Gap Intercollegiate Conference was held at Moravian College for the Lehigh Valley Association of Independent Colleges (LVAIC) schools on Sept. 17. The conference was intended to teach students about leadership, identity, and social activism through various workshops and speeches.

Moravian College, Lehigh University, Muhlenberg College, Cedar Crest College, Lafayette College, and DeSales University comprise the LVAIC schools. Students from these schools met in Johnston Hall at Moravian College.

Christopher Hunt, Associate Dean of Students and Director of Intercultural Advancement, kicked off the event by giving a speech detailing the day’s progression and objectives, which consisted of students building connections and figuring out the different ways to tackle campus issues. Hunt also led a workshop that taught young African American men how to be leaders on their respective campuses.

Reverend Dr. Jackson gave a speech during lunch to motivate students to reach their life goals. He encouraged to students to never forget how much they are loved and cared for by important people in their life.

The day ended with presentations given by each workshop group. The staff, faculty, and student leaders who hosted the event gave the students information on how to be a great leader on their perspective campuses, and in life.