The Social-Emotional Learning Hub For Black People
Our Theme
One Day. Three Bold Moments. One Black Future.
For three years, the Black SEL Summit has been a two-day gathering of bold conversations, Black brilliance, and collective healing. This year, we’re doing things differently—but no less powerfully.
2025’s theme is Resisting by Reimagining—a direct response to burnout, disconnection, and the need to move differently in order to thrive. We’re compressing the summit into one transformational day rooted in impact, culture, and vision. You’re invited to join us on Thursday, September 25, 2025, for a full day of activation, imagination, and celebration.
Black SEL Hub Launch & Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Part One
Black SEL Hub
Launch & Ribbon Cutting Ceremony
Be part of the public unveiling of the first-ever Black SEL Hub – a prevention-focused, culturally grounded space designed to affirm, uplift, and empower Black students and communities through intentional social-emotional learning. The Hub is designed to explore our culturally grounded, emotionally intelligent, and power-affirming SEL framework. With the theme “Resisting by Reimagining,” this initiative -strategically launching at a historically Black high school, invites us to challenge harmful norms and envision new models of wellness, leadership, and liberation in education.
Part Two
Resisting By Reimagining Convening
Then join us for a powerful midday convening as we resist the status quo by reimagining what’s possible for Black youth, communities and families. This gathering is more than an update; it’s an invitation to co-create. Together, we’ll envision the future of the Black SEL Hub—a first-of-its-kind space rooted in emotional resilience, safety, cultural affirmation, and youth leadership.
Thank you to our Black SEL Hub Partners!
Part Three
Dressed to Defy Gala
Annual Black SEL Gala
Fashion is more than flair—it’s resistance. Join us in honoring the legacy of Black creativity and defiance through a formal celebration of fashion, freedom, and forward-thinking. Expect music, storytelling, and unforgettable looks inspired by the Harlem Renaissance and the spirit of survival during the Jim Crow era. Come dressed like your ancestors are watching.
Black SEL Gala
Awardee Nomination
The Black SEL Gala is more than a celebration — it’s a declaration. We honor those who are shifting the culture, uplifting our youth, and making radical love, healing, and justice a lived practice. If you know a student, educator, community leader, or organization who embodies the values of the Black SEL Framework — now’s the time to shine a light on their impact. Selected awardees will be honored at the Black SEL Gala and featured as part of our celebration of Black brilliance, resilience, and resistance.
Apply or Nominate Today
This is your chance to give someone their flowers — while they can still smell them.
Partnership Opportunities Available
The Black SEL Summit is the premier national gathering for Black SEL providers, educators, community organizers, leaders, and youth advocates. We invite you to explore our culturally grounded, emotionally intelligent, and power-affirming SEL framework—and consider how your organization can contribute to this transformative movement that heals, uplifts, and empowers.
Thank you to our Sponsors!
Black SEL Summit 2025
Hotels & Reservations
Residence Inn Durham McPherson/Duke University Medical Center Area
Start Date: Wednesday, September 24, 2025
End Date: Saturday, September 27, 2025
Rate: $179.00 USD per night Last Day to Book: Saturday, September 13, 2025
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Get your tickets
Tickets are now available for the 2025 BlackSEL Summit.
Tickets are now available for the 2025 Black SEL Summit! Don’t miss this opportunity to connect, learn, and celebrate with a vibrant community dedicated to social-emotional learning.
