HireACane Academy

HireACane Academy (HACA) is Toppel’s recruiter conference and retreat where recruiters come together to discuss critical topics and recruiting trends. Employers and UM representatives create interactive presentations, and faculty and students share their expertise and insight into the recruiting process.  Past topics include diversity, equity, and inclusion in recruiting, branding your organization on campus, faculty engagement, and more. 

HireACane Academy: Empower, Connect, and Ignite
May 6-7, 2024

HireACane Academy (HACA) Recruiter Conference brings recruiters together to discuss critical topics and recruiting trends. Join us for a transformative two days at the University of Miami’s beautiful Coral Gables campus as we unlock the keys to effectively EMPOWER, CONNECT, and IGNITE with this vibrant and influential demographic. This year’s HACA will feature insightful discussions, panels, and workshops that will equip recruiters with the tools and strategies necessary to empower Gen Z individuals to thrive in the workforce. Through interactive sessions and networking opportunities, attendees will have the chance to forge valuable connections with industry peers, thought leaders, and UM student leaders. Register today!

AGENDA 

Day 1 – May 6, 2024 
Miami Breakfast: 9:30 - 10:00am 
Welcome & Introductions: 10:00 - 10:30am 
Ali Rodriguez, Executive Director, Toppel Career Center 
Fireside Chat: 10:30 - 11:45am
Professionalism Revisited: A Fireside Chat led by Christian Garcia, Associate Dean and Executive Director at the Toppel Career Center
Debrief Session: 11:45am - 12:15pm
Lunch & Network: 12:15 – 1:15 pm 
Enjoy a delicious lunch and network with Toppel staff 
Session on Student Mental Health: 1:15 - 2:15 pm
Led by Rene Monteagudo, PhD, Director of University of Miami Counseling Center  
Debrief Session: 2:15 - 2:45pm
Student & Faculty Panel: 2:45 – 4:00 pm 
Reception: 4:00-5:30 pm 
Wind down and network with UM students, faculty and staff! 

Day 2 – May 7, 2024 
Breakfast: 9:00 - 9:30am
Welcome & Opening Activity: 9:30 - 9:45 am
(Optional) Guided Campus Tour: 9:45 - 10:30am
Enjoy a guided campus tour and explore our campus.
Deans Panel: 10:45am – 12:00pm
Panelists: Ann Olazabal, Interim Dean, Vice Dean of Lifelong Learning and Executive Education, and Professor of Business Law at the Miami Herbert Business School, Ellenmarie McPhillip, Associate Dean of Undergraduate Academic Services and Strategic Innovation at School of Education and Human Development  
Lunch: 12:00 – 1:00pm
Making the Most of Handshake: 1:00 – 1:50pm
Led by Mel Pearce, Relationship Manager at Handshake
Harnessing AI for Talent Acquisition Success: 2:00 – 2:40pm  
Presented by Jennifer Kaplan, Head of Campus and Diversity Recruiting, at Schonfeld & Joba Odediran, Assistant Director of Coaching and Outreach, at the Toppel Career Center  
Strategies for Recruiting and Retaining International Student Talent 2:45 – 3:25pm  
A panel led by Carly Smith, Director of Career Education, at the Toppel Career Center and Marlon Bermudez, Assistant Director of Internships, at the Toppel Career Center
Debrief Session: 3:30 - 4:00pm
Wrap-up and Closing Remarks: 4:00pm   

Pricing: 
- 2 Day Corporate: $299  
- 1 Day Corporate: $249  
- 2 Day Government/Non-Profit: $249  
- 1 Day Government/Non-Profit: $199 


Employer Testimonials

"I enjoyed hearing from the students and faculty and their news on how
employers can attract and retain diverse candidates."
Gwynett County Public Schools 

"[My favorite aspect of the event was] the student/faculty panel – great to hear their experiences and preferences and to further our thinking for future recruiting strategy."
Federal Reserve Board  

"Thank you! The gifts, boxed lunches, and small touches were really special! Really great environment to learn from others and connect with various industries."
Restaurants Brand International 

"HireACane Academy allowed us to truly gain insight into what attracts candidates to the workforce."
Southern Glazers (SGWS)

"Connecting with other private sector and government employers was a big plus!" 
FBI