Hi, Howdy, and Hello Region V,

I have the gracious honor of welcoming y'all to Tulsa, Oklahoma, for the 2026 Region V Fall Regional Conference at the Marriott Tulsa Southern Hills. Our theme for this year is "Why Not Us," as I firmly believe that one does not lack skills or knowledge but rather platforms and opportunities to elevate.

This theme is inspired by the Texas A&M volleyball team's championship run. All tournament, the Aggies were written off as underdogs, not expected to compete with the bigger, more storied programs. Then, in one pivotal game, down two sets to none, commentators were openly discussing how Texas A&M simply wasn't favored to win. In the middle of that doubt, one teammate's boyfriend asked the ever-pressing question: Why not us? Why can't the Aggies compete and win on the same stages as everybody else? That drive, that push, that desire, that passion, is what ultimately won the Aggies their first volleyball championship EVER.

That's the spirit behind this conference. Too many of us disqualify ourselves before we ever apply for internships, for leadership, or for the room itself because we don't see people who look like us already there or because no one ever told us we were ready. This weekend, that changes. Whether you're walking in for your first conference or your fifth, this space was built for you to stop waiting for permission and start walking through the door.

NSBE does a great job of bringing people together for one common goal. Coming together is only the beginning; keeping together is progress; working together is success. Y'all become the reality of the mission to increase the number of culturally responsible Black engineers who excel academically, succeed professionally, and positively impact the community.

So, this weekend, don't just take notes. Take up space. Ask the question at the panel. Approach the recruiter. Sit at the table. Why not us? Why not you?

I can't wait to see y'all soon. Thanks, and Gig 'em,

Region V FRC Chair
Amelia Tholiti