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HBCU ORIGINAL

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2 years ago

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CNN — 

After 35 years, the cast of “A Different World” has reunited on a tour of historically Black colleges and universities to promote enrollment and raise scholarship funding for current and future students.

“A Different World” was a spin-off of “The Cosby Show” that followed Denise Huxtable’s character, played by Lisa Bonet, as she attended Hillman College, a fictional HBCU in Virginia.

The “A Different World HBCU College Tour 2024” kicked off Thursday at the Atlanta University Center as the cast visited Spelman College, Clark Atlanta University and Morehouse College.

Cast members on the tour include Jasmine Guy, Kadeem Hardison, Dawnn Lewis, Glynn Turman, Cree Summer, Charnele Brown and Darryl Bell.

Bell, who played Ron Johnson on the sitcom, helped organize the tour. He told CNN he sees the campus visits as an opportunity to honor the legacy of the show and introduce a new generation to HBCUs.

“Not a day goes by, for all of us who were involved with the show, where someone doesn’t come up to us and say, ‘I went to an HBCU because I watched ‘A Different World,’” Bell said.

Bell told CNN it’s important for young Black students to consider attending HBCUs because they will not only get a great education, but there’s also a special sense of family.

“HBCUs have produced some of our greatest leaders, greatest minds and greatest thinkers,” Bell said, adding that at HBCUs “there’s an investment that is much more personal.”

Notable HBCU alumni include Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., Kamala Harris, Spike Lee, Oprah Winfrey, Thurgood Marshall, Samuel L. Jackson and Booker T. Washington.

After the cast visited Spelman, Helene Gayle, the president of the college, posted on X that “it was only fitting that they chose to kick off their HBCU College Tour at Spelman,” as several buildings on campus were used in the show to depict the fictional Hillman College.

“A Different World” was also known for tackling difficult and controversial subjects, and students had an opportunity to ask the cast about their experience filming the show during a Q&A session, according to CNN affiliate WXIA.

Kadeem Hardison, who played Dwayne Wayne in the show, recalled one of his favorite episodes, which tackled race relations.

“We got into kind of a racial tension argument, beef, with these White guys and they put us in jail,” Hardison told the audience. “And we had some good talks, some good listening and some good dialogue between all of us. And what it showed was that we’ll get much further if we listen — if you listen to people and you try and see it from their point of view, it will help you understand them better.”

Bell told CNN he’s amazed at the impact the show – and the fictional Hillman College – has had on influencing students to attend HBCUs.

“The only sad thing about ‘A Different World’ is the same frequency with which folks come up and say, I want to apply to Hillman. And I’m like, I’m sorry, that’s where we able to draw the line.  Hillman is not real; you cannot go to Hillman.  You could go to Hampton, you go to Howard, there’s some other choices. But Hillman is not in the cards,” Bell told CNN.

HBCU enrollment increased 26% between 1976 and 1994, according to the National Center for Education Statistics. But the agency noted, “virtually all of the increase occurred between 1986 and 1994.”

“A Different World” aired from 1987 until 1993.

In April, the tour will visit Howard University, Alabama State University and Tuskegee University. Throughout the tour, students will be invited to participate in seminars on financial literacy, career coaching and networking. The cast will also hold voter registration drives on campuses to increase civic participation ahead of the 2024 election.

“The need for Black, Brown and poor people to be registered to vote and have their voices heard is essential,” Bell told CNN.

He said the tour has received requests to visit some predominately White colleges and universities as well.

“Some of the largest schools, while not HBCUs, have large African American and Hispanic communities that want to be engaged with us in our content,” he said.

So far, the tour has raised $50,000 in scholarship funding and has set a goal to raise $1 million by the end of the tour.

But ultimately, Bell said, the tour is about inspiring future generations to keep the legacy of HBCUs – even fictional ones like Hillman College – alive.

“It’s about having an opportunity, about having a pathway to a career,” he said.

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HBCU ORIGINAL

We are dedicated to celebrating the rich history, vibrant culture, and enduring legacy of Historical Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Our mission is to provide a platform that honors the invaluable contributions of HBCUs to higher education, social justice, and community empowerment. Through insightful articles, engaging narratives, and meaningful dialogue, we strive to amplify the voices, experiences, and achievements within the HBCU community. By fostering awareness, appreciation, and support for HBCUs, we aspire to inspire current and future generations to pursue excellence, equity, and inclusivity in education and beyond.

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Alumni Impact

Alabama State University and Morris Brown College Forge New Graduate Education Pathway

HBCU ORIGINAL

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1 week ago

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June 17, 2026

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MONTGOMERY, Ala. — In a move that highlights the continued spirit of collaboration among Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Alabama State University (ASU) and Morris Brown College have officially entered into a new partnership designed to expand educational opportunities for students seeking advanced degrees.

The two institutions signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) on June 16, 2026, at Alabama State University’s historic campus in Montgomery, Alabama. The agreement creates a direct pathway for Morris Brown College graduates to apply for admission into Alabama State University’s graduate degree programs, including several online offerings.

University leaders say the partnership reflects a shared commitment to increasing access to higher education while preparing the next generation of professionals, educators, and community leaders.

“Historically Black colleges and universities have long worked together to create opportunities that transform lives and strengthen communities,” said Alabama State University President Dr. Quinton T. Ross Jr. “As an institution founded to educate and prepare teachers, this partnership brings us full circle. Joining with Morris Brown College to continue that legacy makes this collaboration especially meaningful.”

The agreement is expected to create new opportunities for Morris Brown graduates seeking advanced degrees, particularly in the field of education. Alabama State University’s College of Education will play a key role in supporting students as they continue their academic journeys.

Dean Anthony Broughton emphasized the importance of the collaboration in addressing future workforce needs.

“This partnership with Morris Brown College represents our shared commitment to student achievement and to creating pathways that support educational and professional advancement,” Broughton said. “We are excited to welcome and support Morris Brown students as they pursue careers in education and help strengthen the teaching workforce for generations to come.”

The signing ceremony brought together ASU President Dr. Quinton T. Ross Jr. and Morris Brown College President Dr. Kevin E. James, symbolizing the growing cooperation among HBCUs dedicated to student success and institutional advancement.

As HBCUs continue to innovate and build strategic partnerships, this agreement serves as another example of how Black colleges are working together to create opportunities that extend beyond graduation. The collaboration not only strengthens academic pathways but also reinforces the historic mission of HBCUs to uplift communities through education, leadership, and service.

HBCU Original Magazine will continue to follow this partnership and its impact on students across both institutions.

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Alumni Impact

Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation’s HBCU Scholarship Initiative Tops $4.2 Million in Student Support

HBCU ORIGINAL

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4 weeks ago

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May 26, 2026

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The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation has reached an early milestone in its ambitious $50 million, 10-year scholarship commitment, announcing that more than $4.2 million has already been distributed to students attending Atlanta’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

Launched in October 2025, the initiative is designed to provide critical “gap funding” to juniors and seniors who are closest to graduation but may be held back by remaining financial balances. The program focuses specifically on students in their final semesters, a period when financial pressure is often most intense and traditional aid options have been exhausted.

To date, the foundation has supported approximately 600 students across three major HBCUs in Atlanta: Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College, and Spelman College.

Breakdowns provided by the foundation show $1.45 million distributed to 290 students at Clark Atlanta, $1.24 million to 115 students at Morehouse, and $1.65 million to 189 students at Spelman.

Among the recipients is Kayla Drummond, a first-generation Clark Atlanta University student who is set to graduate this year. Drummond used the scholarship assistance to eliminate a remaining balance that had threatened her ability to complete her degree.

“From my first time stepping on Clark Atlanta’s campus I felt a sense of family and this is where I belong,” Drummond said. “This diploma isn’t just for me, it’s for my family, it’s for my friends, the love, the prayers, the support.”

Foundation leaders say the program is built to scale over the next decade, with the goal of supporting thousands of students while encouraging broader investment in HBCU student success nationwide.

“We’ve seen what’s possible when students get the support they need to cross the finish line,” said Margaret Connelly, managing director of Founder Initiatives at the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation. “That’s what drives this work, and why we hope this initiative encourages others to invest in closing these gaps and helping more students achieve the futures they’ve worked so hard to reach.”

The initiative continues to position itself as one of the most significant private scholarship efforts supporting HBCU students in recent years.

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Alumni Impact

NCCU’s Juan Velarde Named Finalist for Doris Robinson Scholar-Athlete Award

HBCU ORIGINAL

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2 years ago

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October 30, 2024

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DURHAM, N.C. – North Carolina Central University’s Juan Velarde has secured his spot as one of 13 finalists for the prestigious Doris Robinson Award, presented by FedEx, which recognizes the top scholar-athlete in FCS football.

Velarde, who graduated in December 2023 with a degree in business administration with a focus on entrepreneurship, is now advancing his studies in NCCU’s MBA program while maintaining an impressive 4.0 GPA. A member of Beta Gamma Sigma, the National Society of Leadership and Success, and NCCU’s Student-Athlete Advisory Committee, Velarde’s accomplishments extend beyond the classroom. He’s also part of the University Honors Program and serves on the North Carolina Governor’s Advisory Council for Hispanic and Latino Affairs, adding to his impressive résumé.

Known for his impact in the Durham community, Velarde dedicates time to volunteer at local schools, continuing his leadership and service beyond the field.

On the gridiron, Velarde has dominated as a two-time MEAC Specialist of the Week, ranking among the top punters nationwide with a 44.4-yard punt average. With eight of his 31 punts traveling over 50 yards and 11 landing inside the opponent’s 20-yard line, he’s helped shape the field position game for the Eagles. Velarde’s kicking is equally impressive, going 4-for-5 on field goals, including a 43-yard kick against Campbell.

If selected, Velarde would join former defensive lineman Jessie Malit, who won the Doris Robinson Award in 2020, as NCCU’s second honoree. Established in 2015, the Doris Robinson Award honors FCS student-athletes who demonstrate remarkable commitment to their team, academics, and community, upholding the legacy of Doris Robinson, the former schoolteacher and wife of the legendary Grambling coach Eddie Robinson.

In partnership with FedEx, the Doris Robinson Scholar-Athlete Award reinforces a commitment to supporting student-athletes’ future success. FedEx further promotes this mission through the Career Expose – College Pathways Program, offering resources that prepare young leaders for life after college sports.

Finalists will be featured on The Analyst in November, with the award recipient announced on Dec. 10, followed by an awards ceremony at the Stats Perform FCS National Awards Banquet on Jan. 4 in Frisco, Texas. The banquet will also highlight the Walter Payton, Buck Buchanan, Jerry Rice, Eddie Robinson, and the inaugural HBCU FCS Player of the Year Awards.

For all NCCU Athletics updates, check out NCCUEaglePride.com or download the NCCU Eagles Athletics app.

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Alumni Impact

How to Watch Morehouse College vs. Howard University: TV, Live Stream Info, and Location for the 2024 HBCU NY Classic

HBCU ORIGINAL

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2 years ago

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September 13, 2024

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By Mary Omatiga

Published: September 12, 2024, 09:00 AM

This Saturday, September 14, Morehouse College takes on Howard University in the 3rd annual HBCU NY Classic, airing live on CNBC and streaming on Peacock. This highly anticipated matchup kicks off the start of HBCU Homecoming week, where fans, students, and alumni will gather at MetLife Stadium for the world’s largest HBCU Homecoming celebration.

Expect a day filled with exciting festivities, including a drumline showcase, step show, and a battle of the bands, all culminating in a halftime performance by Grammy Award-winning artist Sean Paul. Live coverage of the game begins at 3:00 PM ET. Find out how to tune in below.

How to Watch Morehouse College vs. Howard University:

  • Date: Saturday, September 14
  • Location: MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford, New Jersey
  • Time: 3:00 PM ET
  • TV Channel: CNBC
  • Live Stream: Peacock

Game Location:

The game will be held at MetLife Stadium, home to the New York Giants and Jets, in East Rutherford, New Jersey.

Head-to-Head Matchup:

The Morehouse Tigers and Howard Bison share a fierce rivalry dating back to the 1920s. Here are their most recent results:

  • September 10, 2011 – Howard 30, Morehouse 27
  • September 1, 2012 – Howard 30, Morehouse 29
  • September 7, 2013 – Howard 27, Morehouse 16
  • September 13, 2014 – Howard 35, Morehouse 17
  • September 9, 2023 – Howard 65, Morehouse 19

What Does HBCU Stand For?

HBCU stands for Historically Black Colleges and Universities, institutions founded with the mission of providing higher education opportunities to Black Americans.

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Alumni Spotlight

Forbes Names Howard University as the Top HBCU in the Nation

HBCU ORIGINAL

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2 years ago

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September 13, 2024

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WASHINGTON – Forbes magazine has recognized Howard University as the #1 historically Black college or university (HBCU) in the nation, according to its 2024-2025 America’s Top Colleges rankings.

The annual list showcases 500 schools producing “successful, high-earning and influential graduates from all economic backgrounds, with less student debt.” The colleges were ranked based on return on investment, average student debt, and outcomes for graduates. The publication also considered freshman-to-sophomore retention rates, on-time graduation, and alumni salaries.

In addition to its ranking as the top HBCU, Howard was also ranked among the top 100 colleges in the northeast (#95). Other HBCUs on the Forbes list include Spelman College, Morehouse College, Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University, North Carolina A&T State University, and Hampton University.

The Forbes ranking comes as Howard University continues to grow its groundbreaking programs amid a surge in enrollment. Last month, the University accepted a record-breaking $175 million gift from Bloomberg Philanthropies to support its College of Medicine, public health initiatives, and education of health professionals of color. The University is also home to the first U.S. Department of Defense University Affiliated Research Center at an HBCU, funded through a $90 million grant from the U.S. Air Force to conduct research on technological systems and artificial intelligence. Additional research centers have put the University at the forefront of thought leadership in fields including microchip design and validation, journalism, the humanities, disease research, data science and cybersecurity, nanotechnology, health and wellness, business, civil rights, and gender studies.

“Howard University’s top ranking among HBCUs adds momentum to our march into the upper tier of the nation’s research institutions,” said Howard University President Ben Vinson III, Ph.D. “Howard’s singular influence at the nexus of intellectual discovery and global culture cannot be overstated, and we will continue to push the boundaries of knowledge to help the world solve its most pressing challenges.”

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