The Fattah Conference on Higher Education was originally founded as the Graduate Opportunities Conference in 1987 by Chaka Fattah, a state senator at the time. Chaka Fattah who is currently a Congressman representing the 2nd district in Pennsylvania, designed the two-day conference in an effort to increase enrollment of minority students in graduate and professional schools. For many years the conference attendees were either Pennsylvania residents or students attending Pennsylvania Institutions of higher learning. More recently as Mr. Fattah has ascended to the national stage, the conference has expanded with students attending from as far as North Carolina.

Past conference speakers include Susan Taylor, Editor-in-Chief of Essence Magazine; Dr. Benjamin Carson, the late, Dr. Israel Tribble, Jr., past President of the Florida Endowment Fund for Higher Education; the Honorable Nelson Diaz, former judge of the Pennsylvania Court of Common Please, Reverend Jesse Jackson, Founder of Operation PUSH and the "Three Doctors" from Newark; New Jersey; Dr. Sampson Davis, Dr. Rameck Hunt, and Dr. George Jenkins, to name a few. In addition to motivational speakers, partnerships were developed with many institutions of higher learning to lead workshops and symposiums at the conference providing pertinent information on the admissions process, financial aid, and individual career interests.

While many students aspire to pursue advanced degrees, often times during their undergraduate careers various challanges appear to derail their dreams. This conference serves as a vehicle to renew their drive, reaffirm their commitment, and provide the necessary resources to assist them in the attainment of their educational pursuits.

In order to ensure that you will profit, enjoy and gain from this professional development program, it is requested that each participant follow these instructions:

Dress Code

All participants should wear professional or casual business attire. No jeans, jogging suits, or shorts should be worn except for traveling. Appropriate dress is expected for conference sessions and evening dinners. Cell phones and pagers must be off and put away during conference times.

PLEASE NOTE THIS RULE: STUDENTS AND ADVISORS ARE REPRESENTATIVES OF THEIR INSTITUTIONS AT ALL TIMES.

No Hats

NO HATS ARE ALLOWED INSIDE FOR CONFERENCE PARTICIPANTS. The conference attempts to promote an atmosphere of professionalism and respect for each other.

The Office of Social Equity & Diversity encourages you to demonstrate your interest in attending the Graduate Opportunities Conference by completing the registration form.