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.

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.”

With support from the NFL Foundation, LISC oversaw the field preparations for the upcoming 2024 football season.

On August 20, 2024, it was announced that four historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) will unveil newly refurbished football fields this fall, thanks to grants exceeding $6.5 million from the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation.

The HBCU Invitational Field Refurbishment Program, an invitational grant initiative, was established to enhance the quality, safety, and accessibility of football fields for students and local community youth groups. Funded by the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation and supported by the NFL Foundation, this program targeted select HBCUs in Georgia and Alabama. The Local Initiatives Support Corporation (LISC), the nation’s leading community development support organization, managed the program. LISC, in partnership with the NFL, has refurbished hundreds of community football fields across the country over the past 25 years.

The grants were allocated as follows:

• Albany State University (Albany, Georgia): Conversion of the natural grass football and soccer field at Albany State University Coliseum to turf.
• Clark Atlanta University (Atlanta, Georgia): Replacement of the current turf at Panther Stadium.
• Miles College (Fairfield, Alabama): Conversion of the natural grass at the practice facility to turf.
• Savannah State University (Savannah, Georgia): Replacement of the turf at Ted Wright Stadium’s football and soccer field.

The grant awards followed a competitive request for proposals process. Construction was managed by The Land Tek Group, Inc., a company with over 40 years of experience in sports facility development, in collaboration with local contractors engaged by the universities.

“The positive impact of athletics is a driving force across our business portfolio,” said Rich McKay, CEO of AMB Sports and Entertainment. “Arthur Blank and his Family Foundation prioritize community impact through sport, and supporting these historic institutions aligns with our values. We’re proud to partner with LISC, the NFL Foundation, and these universities to enhance their playing surfaces, with the shared goal of creating more opportunities for students and the surrounding communities.”

“This program is one of many ways the NFL is deepening its commitment to HBCUs,” said Alexia Gallagher, NFL VP of Philanthropy and Executive Director of the NFL Foundation. “We are thrilled to provide resources that allow student-athletes at these institutions to excel on the football field while fostering equal opportunities for all.”

“Thanks to the Arthur M. Blank Foundation and the NFL Foundation, we can provide capital and technical expertise to institutions that offer immense value to students but may not have the same financial resources as larger universities,” said Michael T. Pugh, LISC President and CEO. “With access to these flexible resources, the schools can make critical updates that benefit not only the institutions but also improve the health and well-being of students and community members.”

About the Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation

The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation, established by Arthur M. Blank, co-founder of The Home Depot, in 1995, focuses on transforming lives and communities by bringing people together across differences to find common cause. The foundation has granted over $1 billion to various charitable causes, with collective giving areas including Atlanta’s Westside, Democracy, Environment, Mental Health and Well-Being, and Youth Development. For more information, visit www.blankfoundation.org.

About LISC

LISC is one of the largest community development organizations in the U.S., dedicated to creating vibrant, resilient communities. Since 1979, LISC has invested $32 billion to develop affordable homes, community spaces, and employment opportunities, all while working to close systemic gaps in health, wealth, and opportunity and advance racial equity.

About the NFL Foundation

The NFL Foundation is a nonprofit organization dedicated to improving lives through football, supporting athletes at all levels and the communities that embrace the sport. The foundation, backed by the 32 NFL clubs, focuses on health, safety, and wellness, and has become a leading philanthropic entity, contributing to various causes across the U.S. and beyond. For more information, visit NFLFoundation.org.

Eugene, OR | June 5-8, 2024 – In a display of speed and determination, Jamarion Stubbs, a sophomore sprinter from Alabama State University, made waves at the NCAA Outdoor Championships, finishing 7th in the 200-meter dash with a remarkable time of 20.59 seconds.

HBCU Pride on National Stage

Stubbs, representing his Historically Black College and University (HBCU), Alabama State, brought pride and recognition to his institution with his stellar performance. Competing at Eugene’s iconic Hayward Field, Stubbs demonstrated the high caliber of talent emerging from HBCUs.

Race Highlights

The 200-meter final was fiercely contested, featuring some of the nation’s top sprinters. Stubbs, undeterred by the formidable competition, exploded out of the blocks, showcasing his incredible speed and athleticism. His powerful strides and focus carried him through the finish line, securing a commendable 7th place.

A Journey of Hard Work

Stubbs’ journey to the NCAA Championships has been one of relentless hard work and perseverance. Training under the guidance of Alabama State’s dedicated coaching staff, he has honed his skills and improved his times, culminating in this impressive performance on the national stage.

Alabama State’s Athletic Excellence

Alabama State University, known for its strong athletic programs, continues to produce exceptional athletes who excel at the highest levels. Stubbs’ success at the NCAA Championships is a testament to the university’s commitment to nurturing talent and providing opportunities for student-athletes to shine.

Future Prospects

With his eyes set on even greater achievements, Stubbs is already preparing for future competitions. His performance in Eugene has undoubtedly set the stage for a promising career, and he is poised to continue making headlines in the world of track and field.

A Celebration of HBCU Talent

Stubbs’ accomplishment is a shining example of the talent and potential present in HBCUs. His success not only brings honor to Alabama State University but also highlights the important role HBCUs play in developing student-athletes who can compete on national and international stages.

In Conclusion

Jamarion Stubbs’ performance at the NCAA Outdoor Championships is a source of immense pride for Alabama State University and the entire HBCU community. His journey and success serve as an inspiration to aspiring athletes everywhere, proving that with hard work, dedication, and the right support, anything is possible.

In the heart of bustling cities and nestled in the serene landscapes of the South, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) stand as beacons of opportunity, empowerment, and community. As another academic year draws to a close, it’s time to honor and celebrate the incredible achievements of the graduates who have walked the halls of these esteemed institutions. So, to all the HBCU grads, from Howard University to Xavier University of Louisiana, from Alabama State University to Delaware State University, we extend our warmest congratulations!

Each HBCU holds a unique place in the tapestry of American higher education, nurturing the minds and spirits of students from diverse backgrounds and experiences. From the vibrant campus life of Florida A&M University to the rich cultural heritage of Hampton University, from the innovative spirit of North Carolina A&T State University to the historic legacy of Tuskegee University, these institutions have played a vital role in shaping the leaders, scholars, and trailblazers of tomorrow.

To the graduates of Bowie State University, Claflin University, and Dillard University, among others, your journey has been marked by moments of triumph, resilience, and growth. As you prepare to embark on the next chapter of your lives, armed with knowledge, passion, and determination, know that the entire HBCU community stands behind you, cheering you on every step of the way.

To the faculty, staff, and administrators who have dedicated themselves to nurturing the academic and personal development of HBCU students, we express our deepest gratitude for your unwavering support and commitment to excellence.

As you don your caps and gowns, prepare to walk across the stage, and accept your hard-earned diplomas, remember the values instilled in you by your alma mater: integrity, scholarship, and service. Whether you’re entering the workforce, pursuing advanced degrees, or blazing new trails in entrepreneurship and innovation, carry the spirit of HBCU pride with you wherever you go.

To the parents, families, and communities who have stood by your side, offering love, encouragement, and unwavering belief in your potential, we celebrate your sacrifices and contributions to the success of these remarkable graduates.

And to the future generations of HBCU students, may you be inspired by the achievements of those who have come before you, and may you continue to honor the legacy of excellence and achievement that defines the HBCU experience.

Congratulations, HBCU grads! Your accomplishments are a testament to your hard work, dedication, and resilience. As you set forth to make your mark on the world, remember that the sky is the limit, and the HBCU community stands ready to support you every step of the way. Here’s to a bright and promising future filled with endless possibilities!