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    DENMARK, SC, — Voorhees University proudly announces that its students achieved First Runner-Up honors at the highly competitive iLabs Hackathon Pitch Competition, held April 13–15, 2026, in West Palm Beach, Florida, as part of the nationally recognized Smart City Expo USA.

    Hosted by the 2150 Center for Innovation, Commercialization & Growth in partnership with the HBCU AI Forward Program, the iLabs Hackathon is a first-of-its-kind venture creation experience designed to empower HBCU students to build, pitch, and launch real-world business solutions. The event brought together students from institutions across the country to collaborate, innovate, and present startup concepts before a distinguished audience of industry leaders, investors, and policymakers.

    Representing Voorhees University, the student team delivered an exceptional pitch that earned them First Runner-Up distinction, highlighting their creativity, technical knowledge, and entrepreneurial vision.

    The team’s award-winning pitch centered on the development of a health-focused adaptive clothing line, designed to meet the needs of individuals requiring functional, accessible, and wellness-supportive apparel. The concept included the creation of 10 prototype garments, incorporating innovative materials and a strategic production approach aimed at enhancing comfort, mobility, and health monitoring capabilities. The collection was designed to demonstrate real-world application through features such as adaptability, functionality, and user-centered design, positioning the brand at the intersection of fashion, health, and technology.

    The Voorhees University team included:

    • Amelia Hunter, Freshman, Computer Science Cyber Security
    • Shemar Stuart, Graduating Senior, Computer Science and Cybersecurity
    • Jaydon Robinson, Rising Senior, Business Administration 
    • Izayah Rahming, Rising Senior, Computer Science and Cybersecurity

     “This achievement is a testament to the innovation, talent, and determination of our students,” said Dr. Edward Hill, Provost and Vice President of Voorhees University. “Their success on a national stage reflects our continued commitment to academic excellence and student engagement, and it underscores the impact of providing transformative, hands-on learning opportunities.”

    The iLabs Hackathon was held in conjunction with Smart City Expo USA at the Palm Beach County Convention Center, one of the nation’s leading conferences focused on urban innovation. The event attracts top government officials, Fortune 500 executives, global investors, and technology leaders, providing students with unparalleled exposure to real-world industry networks and emerging trends.

    The 2150 Center for Innovation, Commercialization & Growth—established in 2024 at Miles College under the leadership of Bobbie Knight and CEO/Founder in Residence Erskine “Chuck” Faush—is dedicated to strengthening the HBCU innovation ecosystem. The Center connects researchers, students, and entrepreneurs to foster the development of groundbreaking ideas, successful businesses, and thriving communities.

    Participation in the iLabs Hackathon aligns with Voorhees University’s Strategic Plan, particularly its focus on advancing academic excellence and enhancing student engagement through experiential learning opportunities.

    Voorhees University commends its students for their outstanding performance and looks forward to continued success as they expand their entrepreneurial pursuits and contribute to the next generation of innovators and leaders.

    The post Voorhees University Students Earn First Runner-Up Honors at National Hackathon appeared first on The HBCU Advocate.

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