Meet Kimberly Kisner | Owner & Founder of HBCU Social

We had the good fortune of connecting with Kimberly Kisner and we’ve shared our conversation below.

Hi Kimberly, what was your thought process behind starting your own business?
Starting HBCU Social, was born from a conversation that I had with my best friend from college. Her daughter who attended an HBCU herself was disenchanted with the lack of dating options on campus. We didn’t have that issue because we attended school in the AUC. Clark-Atlanta University to be more specific. The conversation sparked an idea. The idea of having a mobile app that would connect HBCU students so that they could enhance their dating options beyond their specific campus. The app would also be used for friendship, networking and study partners. Additionally, HBCU Social mobile app would be a platform where students could be connected to internships, jobs and scholarships. The conversation was just the beginning. I also realized that the app could touch more than HBCU students, it could also touch alumni, Divine 9 and even HBCU supporters.

I was also driven by a deep-seated passion for education, community, and empowerment. I recognized that there was a significant gap in how HBCU students and alumni connect, share experiences, and support each other’s growth. I saw an opportunity to create a dedicated platform that not only celebrates the rich heritage of HBCUs but also fosters meaningful connections within this unique community.

The thought process behind HBCU Social involved several key considerations:

Identifying the Need: I noticed that many existing social networks didn’t cater specifically to the needs and experiences of the HBCU community. This realization was the catalyst for developing a platform where students and alumni could come together, share their stories, and support one another.

Leveraging My Expertise: With over three decades of experience in communications, marketing, and change management, I felt equipped to create a platform that not only connects people but also empowers them to achieve their goals. My professional background along with the help of Appsketiers – the app development company that I hired- provided me with the skills and insights needed to develop and launch HBCU Social successfully.

Addressing Isolation and Limited Opportunities: I wanted to solve the problem of isolation that many students feel on campus and the limited connection opportunities available to alumni. By creating a space where HBCU individuals can network, find mentors, and discover career opportunities, I aimed to strengthen the community and provide a support system for its members.

Empowering the Community: My vision for HBCU Social was to create more than just a social network; I wanted it to be a platform for growth, empowerment, and celebration. This involved incorporating features that allow users to engage in meaningful ways, whether through events, scholarships, or professional development opportunities.

Commitment to Heritage and Legacy: HBCUs have a rich history and legacy that deserve to be honored and amplified. My thought process included ensuring that HBCU Social would be a platform that respects and uplifts this heritage, while also adapting to the needs of a modern, digitally connected world.

Starting HBCU Social has been an incredibly rewarding journey. It reflects my commitment to the HBCU community and my belief in the power of education and connection. I am excited about the future of HBCU Social and its potential to make a positive impact on the lives of many.

Let’s talk shop? Tell us more about your career, what can you share with our community?
I’ve been fortunate to have a dynamic and fulfilling career, rooted in my passion for communications, marketing, and change management. Over three decades, I’ve cultivated a deep understanding of how to drive effective change and engage diverse audiences, which ultimately led to the creation of the HBCU Social mobile app.

What sets me apart is my ability to blend strategic thinking with a genuine commitment to community building. My work has always been about more than just achieving business goals; it’s about making a meaningful impact and empowering others. HBCU Social embodies this philosophy by creating a dedicated platform that celebrates the rich heritage of Historically Black Colleges and Universities while fostering connections and opportunities within this unique community.

What I’m most proud of is bringing HBCU Social to life. It’s a project that reflects my core values and my belief in the power of education, heritage, and community. The app not only serves as a social network but also as a support system, a professional network, and a hub for cultural celebration.

My professional journey has been far from easy. It involved countless late nights, tough decisions, and overcoming significant challenges. One of the most difficult aspects was juggling a stable corporate career and entrepreneurship, where uncertainty is a constant companion. However, my resilience, perseverance, and unwavering belief in my vision helped me navigate these challenges. I relied heavily on my support system—my family, friends, and mentors—and drew strength from my faith.

The lessons I’ve learned along the way are invaluable. I’ve learned the importance of adaptability, the power of a strong network, and the need for continuous learning and growth. I’ve also learned that passion and purpose are the driving forces behind true success. Challenges are inevitable, but they are also opportunities for growth and innovation.

What I want the world to know about me and my brand is that HBCU Social is more than just a mobile app; it’s a movement. It’s about honoring the legacy of HBCUs and providing a platform that amplifies the voices and stories of its community. It’s about creating a space where students and alumni can connect, support each other, and thrive. My journey and my brand are deeply intertwined with my commitment to education, community, and empowerment.

In conclusion, my career has been a blend of strategic achievements and personal growth, driven by a passion for making a difference. HBCU Social is a testament to this journey, reflecting my dedication to creating something meaningful and impactful for the HBCU community. I’m excited about the future and the endless possibilities that lie ahead for HBCU Social and its members.

Let’s say your best friend was visiting the area and you wanted to show them the best time ever. Where would you take them? Give us a little itinerary – say it was a week long trip, where would you eat, drink, visit, hang out, etc.
First of all I love entertaining. And I love when people come to visit me. One of my favorite things to do his going to speak-easy lounges or like speak-easy lounges. One of my favorite hot spots to go to is Bar Margot in the Four Seasons on a Friday night. The ambiance is amazing and the drinks and food are fantastic. It’s very chic. I also enjoy live music so if there is a outside concert in town, we definitely need to hit that up especially if the weather is great. I also like to take my guest to great restaurants. One of my favorites is C&S seafood. The food is amazing, and I love the white tablecloth settings. If the weather is not too hot or perhaps early in the evening, I love a good rooftop. One of my favorite rooftops is at Rose & Crown. They have a lovely rooftop , great drinks and food. They especially have great fries. Eating of course can’t be the only thing on the menu, we have to get active. So taking a walk on the belt line or I may have my best friend come join me at one of m personal training sessions with my trainer Jeff Wires or attend one of my boxing classes at Pepper Boxing. Another one of my past times is sitting outside eating ice cream. So that means we have to hit up cold stone creamery in Vinings. Oh, and we can’t forget doing a little retail therapy. Hitting up places like Perimeter Mall, TJ Maxx, Nordtrams Rack, Ulta, etc.. While my best friend is in town we have to grab brunch at either Gocha’s Breakfast Bar or Grits & Eggs one of my favorite spots. I also like to to entertain at the house. So I would host an evening of cocktails and light bites and have some folks over to hang out and perhaps play some games.

The Shoutout series is all about recognizing that our success and where we are in life is at least somewhat thanks to the efforts, support, mentorship, love and encouragement of others. So is there someone that you want to dedicate your shoutout to?
I am incredibly grateful for the support and encouragement I received throughout my journey of launching the HBCU Social mobile app. There are several people and groups who deserve a special shoutout and recognition for their unwavering belief in my vision and their invaluable contributions.

First and foremost, I want to thank God for guiding me and giving me the strength and wisdom to embark on this entrepreneurial journey. Without His grace and blessings, none of this would have been possible.

My parents Sarah Kisner and Rev. Gerald Kisner have been my rock and my biggest cheerleaders. Their constant support, love, and belief in my dreams have given me the courage to pursue my goals relentlessly. They instilled in me the values of hard work, perseverance, and integrity, which have been fundamental in my journey.

My family has been my backbone, providing me with endless encouragement and understanding. Their unwavering faith in me kept me motivated, even during the toughest times. They celebrated every milestone with me and offered comfort and advice when I needed it the most.

I also want to extend a heartfelt thank you to two of my eagles. MeKeeba Lomax for having the conversation with me. And Rhea Daniels for all of the brainstorming sessions which were instrumental in shaping the vision for HBCU Social.
I also can’t forget about the team at Appsketiers who worked with me every step of the way to ensure that I had seamless and viable mobile app. Without them – seriously I wouldn’t have an app today.

Finally, I dedicate a special shoutout to the entire HBCU community. The inspiration and motivation to create HBCU Social came from the vibrant and resilient spirit of HBCU students and alumni. Their stories, challenges, and triumphs fueled my determination to build a platform that truly serves their needs and celebrates their unique heritage.

Launching HBCU Social has been a collective effort, and I am deeply grateful to everyone who has been a part of this incredible journey. Their love, support, and belief in me have been the driving force behind HBCU Social, and I share this success with all of them.

Website: https://www.hbcusocial.net

Instagram: @therealhbcusocial

Facebook: HBCUSocial or Kimberly Kisner

Image Credits
Images credit to Angela Wingard – Angie & Co.