The Authenticity Project involves early to mid-career librarians and archivists working at HBCUs, mentors from HBCUs, and conversation partners from predominantly white institutions (PWIs). It aims to build authentic connections and promote genuine exchange. Participants from the initial cohort will share their experiences and the impact on their professional work. Panelists: Raeshawn McGuffie, Hampton University, Virginia; Raquel Donahue, Prairie View A&M University, Texas; Catherine Aster, Stanford University, California; Melissa Wisner, NCSU Library, North Carolina; Josh Hogan, Robert W. Woodruff Library, Atlanta University Center, Georgia.