NAHB's HBCU Cohort Learns From Mentors, Leaders at Black Builder Mixer

NAHB’s Historically Black College and University (HBCU) Student and Faculty Leadership program hosted the second annual Black Builder and Mentor Mixer at the 2025 International Builders’ Show in Las Vegas. 

The event at The New American Home 2025 welcomed 110 students and mentors, including 18 HBCU students who participated in the leadership program’s second cohort. Students toured the prestigious 9,047-square-foot home, which features five bedrooms, five and one-half bathrooms, and an 800-square-foot subterranean wine cellar and lounge.

Mark Schlachter from Sun West Custom Homes, who served as superintendent of the build, spoke to the students about his tips, hardships, and how his team overcame numerous obstacles to construct the luxurious home atop the hills overlooking the Las Vegas Strip.

“Don’t be afraid to ask a question,” said Schlachter. “You want to ask as many questions as you can so you get all of the information that you need.”

Students then dispersed to network with industry professionals to gain insights into the residential construction field, and even plant the seeds for future employment.

AD Designs LLC CEO Anthony Dunston returned to the Black Builder Mixer a year after he found his company’s summer intern, a Tuskegee University alumnus, at the inaugural event.

“Exposure is so important,” said Dunston. “When I was in school, we didn’t see houses like this. We didn’t get to experience conferences like this. Being able to walk in these doors, from an architecture standpoint, changes the way you think about design.”

The mixer’s success was palpable for many attendees who’d flown in from all over the country.

“This event was amazing because at Norfolk State, for students in construction, a lot of people are going down the commercial path,” said Angelo Little, a student at the university. “Meeting so many like-minded individuals in the residential industry, especially from other HBCUs, is inspiring. It really helps bring me out of my comfort zone a little to meet others and see what their plans are.”

Students represented 10 HBCUs already participating in NAHB's HBCU cohort. Want to get involved with one of these HBCU construction education programs? Complete this form.