The 2024 HBCU Honors, presented by Procter & Gamble (P&G), wasn’t just another awards show—it was a celebration of Black culture, legacy, and the transformative power of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Held at Howard University, it premiered Thanksgiving weekend on BET and BET Her. This year’s event stood out as a powerful statement of solidarity and cultural pride. Following its successful television debut, the one-hour special is now streaming on the HBCU Honors YouTube channel.
A Night of Impact and Celebration
The HBCU Honors telecast captured the attention of nearly half a million viewers, securing its spot as a Top 10 Ad-Supported Primetime Cable Telecast for the night among Black audiences, according to Nielsen Media Research. Standing alongside major programs like Sunday Night Football and The Real Housewives of Potomac, it demonstrated the widespread impact and importance of amplifying HBCU narratives.
Featuring inspiring performances and surprise scholarship announcements, the event was hosted by comedian Roy Wood Jr. He set the
stage with humor and energy. while musical acts from Fantasia, Hezekiah Walker, Mac Royals, and the Virginia Union Gospel Choir brought soul and spirit to the event.
Brands Stepping Beyond Business
Daughter and mother, Krista and Gospel star Erica Campbell perform at The 2nd annual HBCU Honors presented by Procter & Gamble, hosted by actress and comedian Kym Whitley, a graduate of Fisk University. Photo courtesy of Ndema Group Media.
HBCU Honors proved that meaningful partnerships can create lasting impact. Procter & Gamble led the charge as the presenting sponsor, supported by major brands like Mielle, Febreze, Walmart, JPMorgan Chase, and Chevrolet.
Some key highlights from brand-driven initiatives that made the evening unforgettable include:
- Mielle honored Hollywood producer Will Packer with the Industry Impact Award while announcing a multi-year $200K partnership for the Hampton University Lady Pirates Basketball Team, including scholarships and mentorship programs.
- Febreze launched the HBCU Shadowship Ambassador Initiative, giving students hands-on mentorship in digital media.
- JPMorgan Chase celebrated Black innovation by sponsoring the Visionary Founder Award, presented to tech leader Jewel Burks Solomon.
- Chevrolet highlighted groundbreaking STEM contributions by recognizing Dr. Lonnie Johnson with the Innovation Trailblazer Award.
Fantasia performs at HBCU Honors 2024 at Howard University. Photo by TaNia Stewart for Ndemay Media Group
Unforgettable Performances and Special Moments
The evening was filled with powerful performances, meaningful tributes, and cultural pride.
- Fantasia and Walmart partnered for the “HBCUers Dream Big” initiative, mentoring aspiring women entrepreneurs from Livingstone College and Johnson C. Smith University.
- Grammy Award-winning couple J. Ivy and Tarrey Torae delivered a poetic tribute, while MC Lyte, Erica and Krista Campbell, and Hezekiah Walker joined forces for a show-stopping finale.
- DC’s local flavor came alive with go-go band Be’la Dona and the Howard University Ooh La La Danceline.
Surprise Scholarships and Investments
The event also shone a spotlight on educational investments and life-changing scholarships:
- Google announced a $5M investment in Spelman College to empower Black women in STEM fields.
- Racquel Oden, Chair of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, awarded a $20K scholarship to Fayetteville State University student Alyssa Henson.
- The Incubation Lab’s Jeron Smith granted a $10K scholarship to Howard University student Suleni T. Sabio-Arzu.
Actor/Comedienne and Kym WhItley strikes a pose on the Blue Carpet at The 2nd annual HBCU Honors presented by Procter & Gamble. The Fisk University graduate served as host of the show. Photo by Cheriss May, Ndemay Media Group.
A Platform for Connection and Legacy
With Getty Images providing exclusive coverage and showcasing rarely seen archival images of HBCU history, the event beautifully merged the past, present, and future. Digital platforms like Watch The Yard amplified the night’s impact, while Yandy Smith-Harris kept audiences engaged online as the Social Media Ambassador.
The blue carpet arrival, hosted by Joe Clair and Autumn Joi Live, added glamour and excitement, capturing the essence of Black excellence for media and fans alike.
A Lasting Impact
The 2024 HBCU Honors was not just an awards ceremony—it was a celebration of Black culture, innovation, and legacy. Through thoughtful partnerships, scholarships, and meaningful performances, it highlighted the significance of HBCUs and the importance of continued investment in their future.
Watch It Now!
If you missed the telecast, don’t worry. You can watch the extended version of the 2024 HBCU Honors now on the HBCU Honors YouTube Channel. You can also subscribe for exclusive interviews, performances, and behind-the-scenes moments.
For more updates, visit www.hbcuhonors.org and follow @hbcu_honors on social media.
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