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Tag: HBCU

  • Deyjah Harris Joins Delta Sigma Theta

    Big congratulations are in order for Deyjah Harris, the daughter of rapper T.I. and singer Tiny! Deyjah is making her own mark on the HBCU landscape by officially pledging Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. at Clark Atlanta University. This marks a significant milestone in her academic journey and her connection to Black Greek Letter Organizations.

    A Legacy of Service and Scholarship

    Deyjah crossed over this spring semester, participating in the probate ceremony – a vibrant presentation of new members – at the Atlanta HBCU. She is now an official member of the Sigma Chapter, adding her name to the sorority’s rich history. Delta Sigma Theta, founded at Howard University in 1913, is one of the largest Black Greek Letter organizations, known for its commitment to scholarship, service, and sisterhood.

    The sorority boasts over 350,000 initiated members and more than 1,050 chapters worldwide, making Deyjah part of a vast and influential network. Her decision to join underscores the enduring importance of these organizations in fostering community and leadership among Black students.

    A Personal Touch to Her Dedication

    During her solo presentation, Deyjah paid a touching tribute to her father’s iconic hip-hop career by walking out to T.I.’s 2004 hit, “Bring Em Out.” This nod to her family’s legacy added a personal and powerful dimension to her official induction.

    Furthermore, Deyjah has embraced a new line name as she joins “Deltaland”: “Precious Heir.” This meaningful name, according to HBCU Pulse, honors her late aunt, Precious Harris, who was also a proud member of Delta Sigma Theta. It’s a beautiful way to keep her aunt’s memory and legacy alive within the sorority.

    Family Ties and HBCU Support

    T.I. has long been a supporter of Historically Black Colleges and Universities, even co-teaching a course on the “Business of Trap Music” at Clark Atlanta University. This connection makes Deyjah’s choice to join a sorority at his alma mater even more special. Together, T.I. and his wife Tiny have built a blended family of seven children, and they are clearly proud of Deyjah’s latest accomplishment.

    By joining Delta Sigma Theta, Deyjah Harris is not only continuing her academic pursuits but also becoming part of a sisterhood dedicated to making a positive impact. It’s inspiring to see young individuals embrace traditions that celebrate scholarship, service, and Black excellence.

    What are your thoughts on Deyjah Harris joining Delta Sigma Theta? Share your congratulations in the comments below!

  • Howard Women’s Basketball Stays In Locker Room for Anthem

    The Howard University women’s basketball team is standing firm on its commitment to social justice, even as pregame protocols evolve. For the past six seasons, these athletes have chosen to kneel during the national anthem, a powerful act mirroring Colin Kaepernick’s protest against police brutality. Now, facing a new university policy, the team has decided to continue their protest by remaining in the locker room during the anthem.

    A New Policy, A Familiar Stance

    Following a game against the U.S. Army in December, Howard’s athletic department implemented a new protocol. According to The Hilltop, the university’s newspaper, the updated rule requires players to either stand for the national anthem or stay in the locker room. The women’s basketball team has overwhelmingly opted for the latter, choosing to stay out of sight during the song, regardless of whether they are playing at home or away.

    Vice President of Athletics, Kery Davis, stated that the new approach aims to show “mutual respect” for all communities while still supporting students’ freedom of expression. “There have been thoughtful internal conversations between athletics leadership, coaches and student-athletes regarding pregame protocols,” Davis revealed. “The current approach is about supporting our students’ freedom of expression while upholding mutual respect for all communities.”

    Activism Rooted in HBCU Tradition

    Associate head coach Brian Davis explained the team’s decision: “We don’t want to bring any bad light to Howard University, so we just decided to stay in the locker room now for every game, home and away, and we will continue to do that throughout the rest of the season.” For the players, this choice is not about disrespecting the anthem but about staying true to their values of justice and upholding Howard’s motto of truth and service.

    As an Historically Black College and University (HBCU) located in the nation’s capital, Howard University has a rich legacy of activism and civil disobedience. The team’s decision reflects this history, continuing a tradition of using their platform to call for change, both within the university and on a national scale.

    However, the new policy has sparked debate among other student-athletes, who question whether it infringes upon their freedoms. “If they can take away our right to protest, what else can they take away?” inquired Howard soccer player Ireal Wyze-Daly. “I would never believe that coming to Howard, the biggest HBCU in the world, The Mecca, would basically be forced to bow down to the white oppressive system.” As the women’s basketball team prepares for the upcoming season under these new provisions, their choice to remain in the locker room highlights the ongoing tension between institutional policies and student activism.

    What are your thoughts on Howard University’s new policy regarding the national anthem? Do you believe the team’s decision to stay in the locker room is an effective form of protest? Share your opinions in the comments below!

  • MacKenzie Scott’s $1B+ HBCU Donations: A ‘Trust-Based’ Faith

    MacKenzie Scott isn’t just giving money; she’s investing in the future of higher education, particularly at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Since 2020, she’s donated over $1 billion to these vital institutions, a move that signifies a profound ‘trust-based’ faith in their mission and potential.

    A Billion-Dollar Commitment to HBCUs

    In 2025 alone, Scott’s generosity poured over $700 million into HBCUs. This massive influx of funds comes at a critical time, especially as discussions around Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion (DEI) face challenges. Scott’s actions clearly aim to amplify and support Black colleges and organizations.

    Her commitment extends beyond individual institutions. In 2025, she notably donated $70 million each to the Thurgood Marshall College Fund and the United Negro College Fund, organizations crucial to supporting Black students and educators nationwide.

    The Power of ‘Trust-Based’ Philanthropy

    What makes Scott’s donations stand out is their ‘no strings attached’ nature. In an essay shared on Yield Giving, she explained that her philanthropic mindset was shaped by personal experiences in college – a dentist offering free care and a roommate loaning her money to prevent dropping out. These acts of kindness demonstrated the immense ripple effect of support.

    It is these ripple effects that make imagining the power of any of our own acts of kindness impossible. — MacKenzie Scott

    This philosophy translates into her giving, empowering HBCUs to allocate funds toward scholarships, facility upgrades, endowments, and other critical needs as they see fit. It’s a powerful vote of confidence in their leadership and vision.

    The Full List of Benefiting HBCUs

    Scott’s extensive support since 2020 includes substantial donations to a wide array of HBCUs. Here’s a breakdown of the institutions that have received her transformative gifts:

    • Alabama State University: $38 million (2025)
    • Alcorn State University: $42 million (2025)
    • Bowie State University: $50 million (2025); $25 million (2020)
    • Claflin University: $20 million (2020)
    • Clark Atlanta University: $38 million (2025); $15 million (2020)
    • Delaware State University: $20 million (2020)
    • Dillard University: $19 million (2025), $5 million (2020)
    • Elizabeth City State University: $42 million (2026); $15 million (2020)
    • Hampton University: $30 million (2020)
    • Howard University: $80 million (2025); $40 million (2020)
    • Lincoln University (PA): $20 million (2020)
    • Morehouse College: $20 million (2020)
    • Morgan State University: $63 million (2025); $40 million (2020)
    • Norfolk State University: $50 million (2025); $40 million (2020)
    • North Carolina A&T State University: $45 million (2020)
    • Prairie View A&M University: $63 million (2025); $50 million (2020)
    • Spelman College: $38 million (2025); $20 million (2020)
    • Tougaloo College: $6 million (2020)
    • Tuskegee University: $20 million (2020)
    • University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES): $38 million (2025)
    • Virginia State University: $50 million (2025)
    • Voorhees University: $19 million (2025)
    • Winston-Salem State University: $50 million (2025)
    • Xavier University of Louisiana: $38 million (2025); $20 million (2020)

    Breaking down the numbers, Scott donated $451 million in 2020 and a staggering $676 million in 2025 (over $740 million including the United Negro College Fund). With recent contributions like the $42 million to Elizabeth City State University, her total giving to HBCUs surpasses $1.1 billion over the past six years.

    Paying It Forward: A Legacy of Support

    Scott’s own experiences, including mentorship from literary giant Toni Morrison, have clearly shaped her approach to giving back. She learned the value of passionate devotion to multiple callings and is now extending that principle to students at historic institutions across the country. Her ‘trust-based’ philanthropy is not just financial aid; it’s an investment in potential and a powerful affirmation of the enduring importance of HBCUs.

    What do you think about MacKenzie Scott’s approach to donating to HBCUs? Share your thoughts on this ‘trust-based’ model in the comments below!

  • MacKenzie Scott’s $1B+ HBCU Donations: A Game Changer

    Imagine a world where education is a powerful equalizer, and institutions dedicated to fostering talent and community receive the support they truly deserve. That’s the vision MacKenzie Scott is helping to bring to life, especially for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). She’s not just donating; she’s making history with over $1 billion in gifts to these vital institutions!

    A Commitment to Giving Back

    For those who might not know, MacKenzie Scott, formerly married to Amazon founder Jeff Bezos, received a significant portion of Amazon’s stock after their 2019 divorce. But instead of keeping it all, she made a powerful commitment: to give away at least half of her fortune. This isn’t just talk; she signed the Giving Pledge in May 2019, signaling a deep dedication to philanthropy.

    Her focus has increasingly turned towards HBCUs, recognizing their crucial role in education and community development. These institutions have a rich history of empowering students and driving social change, and Scott’s support is a testament to their enduring value.

    Record-Breaking Donations

    One of the most striking examples of her generosity is the $42 million donation to Elizabeth City State University (ECSU) in March. This wasn’t just a large sum; it was the largest dollar-per-student donation ever recorded for an HBCU, nearly tripling a previous gift from 2020. It’s a game-changer for ECSU and its students.

    ECSU Chancellor S. Keith Hargrove Sr. expressed profound gratitude, stating that Scott’s investment affirms the university’s role as a “powerful catalyst for change.” He highlighted how such gifts provide resources that “accelerate momentum,” allowing institutions to “move boldly toward the future” while staying true to their foundational mission.

    A Wave of Generosity Across Institutions

    Scott’s philanthropic efforts extend far beyond a single institution. She has made substantial donations to numerous other HBCUs, demonstrating a broad commitment to strengthening the entire network of these historic colleges and universities.

    • Lincoln University: $25 million
    • Voorhees University: $19 million
    • Howard University: $80 million
    • Spelman College: $38 million
    • Morgan State University: $63 million
    • Norfolk State University: $50 million
    • Winston-Salem State University: $50 million
    • North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University: $63 million
    • Prairie View A&M University: $63 million
    • Dillard University: $19 million

    These significant contributions are more than just financial aid; they represent a powerful affirmation of the “enduring value of Historically Black Colleges and Universities,” as noted by Lincoln University President Brenda Allen. With these donations, Scott’s total contributions to HBCUs have now surpassed an incredible $1 billion.

    The Impact of $1 Billion and Beyond

    What does over $1 billion mean for HBCUs? It means enhanced academic programs, expanded research opportunities, improved facilities, and greater support for students who might otherwise face financial barriers. It means these institutions can continue to thrive and serve as engines of opportunity for generations to come.

    Her investment affirms what we already know: that institutions like ECSU are powerful catalysts for change. — S. Keith Hargrove Sr., ECSU Chancellor

    MacKenzie Scott’s philanthropic approach is setting a new standard, focusing on impactful giving that directly addresses critical needs. Her substantial investments in HBCUs are not only transforming individual institutions but are also sending a powerful message about the importance of supporting Black higher education.

    What are your thoughts on MacKenzie Scott’s incredible generosity towards HBCUs? Share your perspective in the comments below!

  • Howard University Launches Cardi B Course

    Get ready for a new kind of academic exploration! Howard University is making headlines by announcing a unique course dedicated to the one and only Cardi B. This isn’t just about music; it’s a deep dive into the cultural impact, business savvy, and artistic expression of a true global icon.

    Deconstructing Cardi B’s Phenomenon

    The three-credit course, titled ‘The Cardi B: Am I The Drama? The Art, Production, Marketing, and Cultural Impact of Hip-Hop,’ will center on her highly successful second album, released on September 19, 2025. This album not only debuted at No. 1 on the Billboard 200 but also sold an impressive 200,000 equivalent album units in its first week.

    Professor Jasmine Young, director of Howard University’s Warner Music/Blavatnik Music Business Center, explained that the course will examine Cardi B’s rise to superstardom. It aims to understand what makes her such an amazing, global, and iconic figure in the music industry.

    A Multidisciplinary Approach

    This groundbreaking course is a collaborative effort. Professor Young will be joined by Dr. Msia Kibona Clark, an associate professor in African Studies and director of the school’s hip-hop studies minor, and Professor Pat Parks, an assistant professor in Theatre Arts. Together, they’ll explore the album through the lenses of music, business, marketing, media, gender studies, production, and cultural theory.

    A significant focus will be placed on the representation of Black women and minority women within the music business, offering valuable insights into the industry’s landscape.

    Why This Course Matters

    Professor Young highlighted the course’s significance, stating it validates hip-hop as a scholarly discipline and a thriving global economy. It provides students with direct access to the strategies, storytelling, and brand architecture behind a superstar like Cardi B. This isn’t just theory; it’s about proximity to the ‘REAL playbook.’

    The Warner Music/Blavatnik Center aims to ‘educate, excite, and empower’ students. This course is set to redefine hip-hop education by institutionalizing the study of contemporary artists, proving that culture is indeed currency and that the classroom should reflect the current pulse of students. This unique partnership with Atlantic Records and Cardi B herself is a testament to that mission.

    Course Logistics

    Mark your calendars! The course is scheduled to officially debut in the fall 2026 semester. Classes will be held on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 12:40 p.m. to 2:00 p.m. Due to high demand and the specialized nature of the curriculum, only 24 students will be admitted.

    What do you think about Howard University offering a course on Cardi B? Is this the future of music education? Share your thoughts below!

  • Morgan State Lands $2.4M Grant for Nuclear Energy Project

    Big news from Morgan State University! They’ve just secured a significant $2.4 million grant to spearhead an innovative energy research project. This isn’t just any grant; it’s a landmark achievement that positions Morgan State as the first Historically Black College and University (HBCU) to lead a project funded by the Defense Advanced Research Projects Agency (DARPA).

    Pioneering Nuclear Energy Conversion

    The project, aptly named ‘Rads to Watts,’ focuses on a truly cutting-edge concept: converting nuclear radiation directly into electrical energy. This groundbreaking initiative is being led by the university’s Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering (ECE).

    Oscar Barton Jr., dean of the Clarence M. Mitchell Jr. School of Engineering, expressed immense pride in the award. He stated that it not only reflects the strength of Morgan State’s research capabilities but also its ability to manage high-impact, federally funded projects addressing critical national challenges. This award underscores Morgan’s growing reputation as a hub for advanced engineering research and innovation.

    The ‘Rads to Watts’ Initiative

    Dr. Michael Spencer, a distinguished professor in ECE, is at the helm of the Rads to Watts project. He shared the team’s excitement about participating in this DARPA initiative. Their primary goal is to demonstrate a scalable system that meets rigorous performance, safety, and durability standards, paving the way for even more powerful energy implementations in the future.

    Under Dr. Spencer’s leadership, a dedicated team of researchers at Morgan State will collaborate with several prominent organizations. These partners include industry leaders like Northrop Grumman and Applied Research Associates, as well as research institutions such as Widetronix, Omega Project, and Pacific Northwest National Laboratory.

    Introducing the Symphonee Device

    A key component of this project is the development of ‘Symphonee,’ a device built upon over two decades of research by Morgan State scientists. This innovative technology features a multi-junction silicon carbide (SiC) PIN structure, specifically designed to work with strontium-90 and yttrium-90 radioisotopes.

    The potential applications are vast. If successfully developed and commercialized, Symphonee could generate kilowatts of power for remote locations, including the Arctic or even outer space. Furthermore, it holds promise for use in implantable medical devices, showcasing its versatility and impact.

    Funding and Future Potential

    The Rads to Watts project has an initial funding period of 15 months. However, there are provisions for additional funding options, including an extra $937,489 for nine months and $28,237 for six months. If all funding options are exercised, the total investment in this project could reach an impressive $3.3 million.

    What are your thoughts on this incredible advancement in energy technology? Share your insights in the comments below!

  • Olandria Carthen: Mom’s Sacrifice Fuels Her Hustle

    Olandria Carthen is on a mission to build an empire, and her journey is deeply rooted in the sacrifices and resilience of her mother. This Decatur, AL native, who proudly holds the distinction of being the first in her family to graduate high school and college, credits her mother’s unwavering work ethic as the driving force behind her own success.

    Inspired by a Mother’s Strength

    Carthen’s mother, Felicia, faced immense challenges, becoming a mother at just 15 and later putting her own education on hold to raise her children. Working jobs like McDonald’s, Felicia managed to provide for her family on a single income. ‘I always admired her work ethic as we were growing up,’ Carthen shared with AFROTECH™. ‘Imagine three kids, a single parent, one paycheck … We never went without.’

    This powerful example of resourcefulness deeply influenced Carthen. When faced with her own financial hurdles in pursuing higher education, she learned to ‘get creative,’ just like her mother. Carthen took initiative, sending out letters, working for her former landlord, and cleaning out houses for extra cash to cover her educational expenses. ‘Seeing how my mom got creative when it came to stretching that dollar, it made me get creative when I found myself in those tough moments,’ she explained.

    From Nine-to-Five to Entrepreneurship

    After earning her bachelor’s degree in logistics, materials, and supply chain management from Tuskegee University in 2022, Carthen began her career as an associate sales specialist at Otis Elevator. However, inspired by the Black entrepreneurs she met while networking in Houston, Texas—often being the only one working a traditional nine-to-five—she felt a strong pull towards entrepreneurship.

    This motivation led her to leave Otis Elevator in July 2025, the same month Season 7 of ‘Love Island USA’ concluded, to fully dedicate herself to her growing brand and platform, which now boasts over 4 million social media followers. ‘First entrepreneur in the family,’ she proudly stated. ‘This is a first because we’re all nine-to-five people, regular town folk … but I guess [I’m] the first person to actually step out and bet on myself and my family and show my family, ‘Hey, this could be you too, and I’m willing to help you get there.’

    Building a Brand and Future Ventures

    Carthen is strategically building her brand, supported by a team including a business manager, lawyer, and representation from the United Talent Agency. She intentionally focused on building ‘Olandria the brand’ first, aiming for visibility on billboards, commercials, and potentially other reality TV or film projects. She also teased the upcoming launch of her own body care line, emphasizing her commitment to never being ‘ashy’ and always ‘shining.’

    Navigating this path as the first entrepreneur in her family means forging her own way. While she credits her parents as strong influences, Carthen has defined her own role models by reflecting on her core values and aspirations. Education remains a central theme, driving her actions and partnerships, including amplifying HBCUs with Microsoft and participating in McDonald’s ‘First Job Confessional’ program.

    • Olandria Carthen is the first in her family to graduate high school and college.
    • She credits her mother’s resilience and work ethic for inspiring her own drive.
    • Carthen transitioned from a corporate job to entrepreneurship to build her brand.
    • She aims to inspire her family and community by betting on herself.
    • Future ventures include a body care line and continued media presence.
    • Education and community impact are central to her mission.

    Carthen’s journey, fueled by familial inspiration and a commitment to education, exemplifies the power of creativity, hard work, and believing in oneself. Her story is a testament to how early sacrifices can pave the way for future success and inspire generations to come.

    What inspires your work ethic? Have you ever felt the need to get ‘creative’ to achieve your goals? Share your stories and thoughts in the comments below!

  • FAMU Cheerleader Inducted into Hall of Fame

    Talk about making history! A former cheerleader from Florida A&M University (FAMU) is set to be immortalized in the sport. Dr. Chato B. Hendrix has been selected as one of the four inductees into the 2026 National Football Cheerleaders Alumni Organization Hall of Fame, marking a significant achievement for HBCU representation in cheerleading.

    A Legacy of Leadership and Spirit

    The NFL Cheer Alumni page announced the accolade, highlighting Hendrix’s extensive legacy. Her mission, they wrote, has always gone beyond just talent. Hendrix is recognized for intentionally creating spaces where cheerleaders feel celebrated as they pursue both their passions and careers. She’s built a culture focused on confidence, leadership development, and social-emotional intelligence.

    The NFL Cheer Alumni page even coined a term, “Spinergy,” to capture the positive spirit and energy she champions – a blend of strength, spirit, synergy, and sustained excellence. This reflects her deep impact on the cheerleading community.

    From FAMU to the Falcons and Beyond

    Hendrix’s love for cheerleading and team sports began during her college years at FAMU, cheering for the Rattlers. After graduating, she continued her journey in professional sports while pursuing further education at Clark Atlanta University, another esteemed HBCU. There, she joined the Atlanta Falcons cheerleaders in 1998.

    During her time with the Falcons, Hendrix emerged as a vocal leader, earning the squad’s Community Service Award and serving as a two-year Line Captain. Even after retiring her pom-poms, her dedication continued. She has served as a director for the NFL cheerleading program for an impressive 22 seasons, further solidifying her influence.

    A Beacon of Excellence

    Now, her extensive leadership and impact on the sidelines have culminated in this significant honor. As an esteemed mentor and a Ph.D. degree holder, Hendrix embodies the values of excellence and upliftment that are so pivotal to her beloved sport and HBCUs.

    In her ongoing role with the Falcons, she continues to choreograph appearances and performances for their cheer community. Beyond her professional achievements, Hendrix also works as a high school counselor, demonstrating her commitment to service across multiple avenues.

    I am deeply humbled and grateful for this cheermazing honor. I’ve truly been blessed to do what I love. — Dr. Chato B. Hendrix

    Hendrix’s journey is an inspiring testament to dedication, leadership, and the enduring spirit of HBCUs.

    What do you admire most about Dr. Chato B. Hendrix’s career and achievements? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Adore Bryant Honors Mom Gizelle Bryant’s Legacy at Hampton

    Talk about a full-circle moment! Adore Bryant, daughter of ‘Real Housewives of Potomac’ star Gizelle Bryant, recently captured hearts and went viral with a stunning tribute to her mother’s legacy. She recreated an iconic photo taken by Gizelle herself 36 years ago on the very same campus – Hampton University!

    A Legacy of Sisterhood and Service

    Standing confidently in a green beret and carrying a pink bag, Adore perfectly mirrored her mom’s pose. But this wasn’t just about a cute throwback pic; it was a powerful declaration of legacy. Adore proudly announced her new membership in Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., the same esteemed sorority her mother pledged during her time at Hampton.

    She captioned the post with a simple yet profound “Legacy,” and her heartfelt words to her mother, affectionately called ‘Soror Mommy,’ truly resonated. Adore thanked her for showing her the true meaning of lifelong sisterhood and service, fulfilling a dream that honors her mother’s path.

    More Than Just a Sorority

    For many within Black Greek-letter organizations, membership is deeply personal, often passed down through generations. Adore’s journey – walking the same historic HBCU campus, joining the same sisterhood, and recreating that photograph – transforms a personal milestone into a significant cultural moment. It’s a beautiful visual bridge connecting the past to the present.

    Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc., founded in 1908, is much more than just a social organization. It’s a powerful force for civic leadership and professional advancement for Black women. For over a century, its members have been at the forefront of change as educators, judges, entrepreneurs, and policymakers, building invaluable networks.

    • Emphasis on scholarship and academic excellence.
    • Commitment to community service and social impact.
    • Fostering professional development and leadership.
    • Creating a lifelong sisterhood and support system.

    Stepping into a Lineage of Influence

    The sorority’s dedication to scholarship, service, and advocacy has opened doors for countless Black women, helping them break barriers in fields where they were historically excluded. Wearing the iconic pink and green signifies not just tradition, but a proud lineage of influence and empowerment.

    In a world that’s always looking ahead, Adore Bryant’s touching tribute is a powerful reminder that legacy truly lives on through generations. Huge congratulations to Adore! We can’t wait to see how she carries her mother’s legacy forward, adding her own unique chapter to the story.

    What do you think about Adore honoring her mother’s legacy? Share your thoughts in the comments below!

  • Nets Celebrate HBCU Culture at Barclays Center

    Brooklyn showed up and showed out for its HBCU culture! On March 31, 2026, Barclays Center transformed into a vibrant celebration during the Brooklyn Nets game against the Charlotte Hornets, hosting an unforgettable ‘HBCU Homecoming’ event.

    A Night of Culture and Performance

    The arena buzzed with energy as HBCU traditions took center stage. Attendees were treated to a spectacular halftime show featuring the renowned Howard University Marching Band, the electrifying Nets Beats Drumline, and a dazzling performance by the Brooklynettes, who joined forces with Howard University students. The night also included an impressive Divine 9 Step Show, showcasing the talent and precision of these historic fraternities and sororities.

    But the celebration didn’t stop at the halftime show. Adjacent to the arena, at the Brooklyn Basketball Training Center, a college fair brought together over 700 local high school students and educators. Representatives from various HBCUs were on hand, offering aspiring students a chance to connect with admissions teams and learn more about their dream schools.

    Nets Unite: Building Community Beyond the Game

    This special event is part of the Nets Unite platform, a community initiative that hosts a variety of themed nights throughout the season. Jackie Wilson, the senior vice president of social impact, explained that these events, including HBCU Homecoming, Pride Night, and Hoops for Troops, are designed to reflect the organization’s values and its deep connection to Brooklyn.

    “The Nets Unite platform is a reflection of who we are as an organization and what we stand for in Brooklyn,” Wilson shared. “It’s about creating moments that go beyond the game and bringing basketball, culture, music, and community together in a way that feels authentic to this borough.”

    A Resounding Success

    The response to the HBCU Homecoming initiative has been overwhelmingly positive. Wilson noted that fans are not just attending for the basketball game but for the entire immersive experience. The energy in Barclays Center was palpable, with attendees feeling a personal connection to the festivities both on and off the court.

    While the event was a resounding success in celebrating culture and community, the Nets themselves faced a tough night on the court, ultimately being outplayed by the Charlotte Hornets with a final score of 117-86. However, the spirit of HBCU Homecoming shone brightly, making it a night to remember for all involved.

    What are your favorite HBCU traditions? Share them in the comments below!