LAURINBURG — A college fair will bring people from surrounding counties to Scotland County.

Elite Enterprises is bringing the HBCUs and More College Experience event to Laurinburg, where students can interact with college and trade school representatives.

“I encourage everyone to come out ages zero to infinity,” said Byron Revels, owner of Elite Enterprises and co-coordinator of the event. “Anyone interested in college or changing their career field should come out.”

Revels is a graduate of Scotland High School, then graduated from Winston-Salem State University with a degree in mass communications. Bevel wished that residents in his hometown could get more exposure to opportunities, so he thought of putting together a Historical Black College and University fair. He said his idea took years in the making, building up the courage to collaborate with friends, colleges and schools.

“I just want to bring more opportunities to people here in Scotland County,” said Revels. “HBCUs are underrated and everyone benefits from them. Black and White students can apply for minority scholarships!”

Jane Dough of Foxy 99 will host the event and Hot 104.5 will also have a promotion table.

He says some schools will be able to admit students on site, based on their grades and other qualities. Revels has added non-HBCUs, community colleges, the Armed Forces and Trucking Schools to be in attendance.

“All five branches will be there and I know college isn’t for everyone so I added more,” said Revels.

Some in attendance will be Bennett College, Elizabeth City State University, Sand Hills Community College, Fayetteville Tech Community College, NC Works, Future Truckers of America and many more.

Bevels said he reached out to UNC Pembroke, which declined and St. Andrews University who gave no response.

We are expected to have more than 500 people attend because the word is out in different counties,” said Revels.

He encourages students to bring transcripts and report cards. Snacks and drinks will be available to the public.

There will be a reception before the event at 2 p.m. where invited local dignitaries and officials will meet and greet with the representatives.

At 4 p.m. general doors open to the public.

The HBCUs and More College Experience is Monday, 4 to 8 p.m. at The Highlands, 17160 Old Plant Road, Laurinburg.

Jael Pembrick can be reached at 910-506-3169 or [email protected].

Jael Pembrick

Staff writer