April 23, 2025 | By HBCU Original

In a powerful and renewed commitment to uplift Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), President Donald J. Trump has signed a new Executive Order titled “White House Initiative to Promote Excellence and Innovation at Historically Black Colleges and Universities.” This bold move continues an ambitious agenda to empower HBCUs as national leaders in education, economic opportunity, and community transformation.

A New Chapter in Federal Support

The Executive Order affirms that HBCUs remain vital to the American story—serving as launchpads for generations of leaders in business, education, government, and beyond. President Trump’s directive not only builds upon his previous efforts but also strategically positions HBCUs at the forefront of shaping America’s future workforce.

“The path to prosperity begins with opportunity—and our HBCUs are the architects of that opportunity,” said President Trump in the official order. “This initiative reaffirms our commitment to making sure these institutions are equipped to thrive in a competitive global economy.”

The Vision: Excellence, Equity, and Empowerment

At the heart of the Executive Order lies a focused policy agenda to:

• Advance America’s full potential by investing in HBCU students and faculty.

• Enhance institutional capacity in technology, fiscal management, and infrastructure.

• Provide professional development in high-growth industries like healthcare, manufacturing, tech, and finance.

• Create pipelines from K–12 through college to career for Black students across the nation.

The White House Initiative on HBCUs

A major highlight of the order is the reestablishment of the White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities, now housed in the Executive Office of the President. Led by a newly appointed Executive Director, this initiative will coordinate efforts between federal agencies, private-sector partners, foundations, and the academic community to elevate HBCU impact.

Two major missions drive the Initiative’s work:

1. Empowering institutions: Supporting financial health, technology upgrades, and academic infrastructure.

2. Serving students: Promoting career development, college affordability, retention, and degree attainment.

The President’s Board of Advisors

In collaboration with the Department of Education, the Initiative will be supported by a President’s Board of Advisors on HBCUs, composed of leaders in business, philanthropy, education, and innovation. This board will play a critical role in shaping federal strategies and ensuring accountability in advancing HBCU priorities.

A Roadmap to Implementation

Federal agencies are now mandated to participate in the Initiative, share information, and implement best practices to ensure the success of HBCUs. An annual White House Summit on HBCUs will serve as a touchpoint to assess progress, foster collaboration, and promote innovation.

Further, the Executive Director will issue a yearly progress report to the President, summarizing accomplishments, barriers, and recommended actions to keep HBCUs at the forefront of national development.

A Signal to the Nation

This Executive Order isn’t just a policy document—it’s a clarion call. A call for innovation, inclusion, and investment in Black excellence. It acknowledges that America’s greatness depends on how we uplift every community and how we honor the institutions that have always dared to dream bigger.

With this new vision from the White House, HBCUs are poised not only to continue their legacy but to expand their influence, grow their capacity, and lead us all toward a more equitable and empowered tomorrow.

🔗 Read the full Executive Order here: White House Initiative to Promote Excellence and Innovation at Historically Black Colleges and Universities

#HBCUPride #ExecutiveOrder2025 #HBCUExcellence #InnovationStartsHere #TrumpHBCUInitiative

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have long been pillars of academic excellence and cultural legacy. Now, a powerful shift is happening across their athletic departments—former professional athletes are stepping into coaching roles, and their impact is being felt far beyond the scoreboard.

This is more than a trend—it’s a movement.

From the League to the Legacy

It all starts with the names we grew up watching under bright stadium lights—legends who are now pouring their experience back into Black institutions:

• Deion “Coach Prime” Sanders, whose revolutionary run at Jackson State University reignited HBCU football’s relevance nationwide.

• DeSean Jackson, now playing a vital mentorship role at Delaware State University (DSU), equipping student-athletes with NFL insight and inspiration.

• Michael Vick, connecting with Norfolk State University (NSU) to provide leadership and national visibility.

And the list doesn’t stop there.

Former Pros Now Leading HBCU Programs

These elite athletes turned coaches are bringing championship mindsets, elite connections, and a deeper sense of purpose to HBCU sports programs:

🏀 Reggie Theus – Head Men’s Basketball Coach and Athletic Director at Bethune-Cookman University. A former NBA All-Star, Theus is building a foundation of excellence both on and off the court.

🏀 Reggie Theus also recently brought visibility to Fisk University by supporting HBCU athletics through outreach and program development.

🏀 Cynthia Cooper-Dyke – Hall of Famer and WNBA legend, now Head Women’s Basketball Coach at Texas Southern University. Her championship pedigree sets a high standard for female athletes.

🏀 Juan Dixon – Former NBA player and NCAA champion, served as Head Men’s Basketball Coach at Coppin State University, leading with passion and hometown pride.

🏈 Sean Gilbert – Former NFL Pro Bowler and now Head Football Coach at Livingstone College, bringing toughness and structure to the gridiron.

🏀 Laura Harper – Former WNBA player and NCAA champ, serving as Head Women’s Basketball Coach at Coppin State University. She’s building a winning culture while mentoring strong, intelligent women.

🏀 Lindsey Hunter – Former NBA guard and champion, Head Men’s Basketball Coach at Mississippi Valley State University, bringing pro-level standards to his squad.

🏀 George Lynch – Former NBA forward and UNC standout, now Head Men’s Basketball Coach at Clark Atlanta University. His leadership is helping student-athletes excel both athletically and academically.

🏀 Elaine Powell – Former WNBA star, now leading the charge as Head Women’s Basketball Coach at Langston University. She’s creating fierce competitors on the hardwood.

🏈 Tyrone Wheatley – Former NFL running back and Michigan standout, now Head Football Coach at Morgan State University. Wheatley brings grit, leadership, and recruiting vision to the Bears.

🏀 Maurice “Mo” Williams – NBA Champion and now Head Men’s Basketball Coach at Alabama State University. Williams is building a powerhouse through player development and discipline.

Why This Matters

This influx of former pro athletes into HBCU coaching roles is transformative:

• Recruiting Power: High school athletes are more likely to choose HBCUs when coached by names they admire.

• National Attention: Media and sponsors are tuning in, bringing money, recognition, and momentum to Black college programs.

• Career Development: These coaches bring industry insight, guiding student-athletes on paths that extend far beyond the game.

• Cultural Upliftment: These leaders are restoring pride in HBCU athletics, rooted in community and excellence.

It’s Bigger Than the Game

These coaches aren’t just chasing championships—they’re shaping futures. They’re turning overlooked programs into powerhouses and giving Black athletes an opportunity to thrive within their own culture. They’re proving that HBCUs are not just a stepping stone, but a destination for greatness.

Their message is clear: You don’t have to go elsewhere to be seen, respected, or developed. You can do it right here—at an HBCU.

Final Word: Building Legacy Through Leadership

From Deion Sanders to Cynthia Cooper-Dyke, Reggie Theus to Tyrone Wheatley, these former pros are rewriting the script for HBCU athletics. They’re not just coaching—they’re cultivating a culture of confidence, excellence, and possibility.

This is how we change the game.

This is how we invest in our future.

This is how we win.

BOWIE, MD — The energy was electric at Bowie State University as fans, students, alumni, and future Bulldogs gathered for an unforgettable day of football, fellowship, and Bulldog pride. On April 19, 2025, BSU hosted its annual Spring Football Game, a much-anticipated tradition that not only offered a sneak peek into the team’s upcoming season but also doubled as an Alumni Game and Junior Day.

This year’s event went beyond just football. It was a celebration of community and culture — a powerful reminder of why HBCU traditions run deep. From tailgates to touchdowns, the spirit of the Bulldog Nation was on full display.

Alumni Came Home

BSU alumni showed up and showed out, reconnecting with former teammates, sharing stories of their time on campus, and cheering on the next generation of Bulldogs. Their presence added a legacy-filled atmosphere, with many expressing gratitude for the opportunity to return and support the program that helped shape their lives.

Future Bulldogs on Deck

The Junior Day initiative welcomed prospective student-athletes and their families, giving them a first-hand look at Bowie State’s facilities, coaching staff, academic offerings, and unmatched school spirit. The event made a lasting impression, with many attendees already envisioning themselves in black and gold.

The Game Itself

The Spring Game featured competitive energy as offense and defense battled it out in front of a packed stadium. New talent emerged, and returning stars reminded everyone why BSU remains a powerhouse in HBCU football. Coaches used the opportunity to evaluate team chemistry, try out new formations, and get a sense of what the 2025 season could bring.

HBCU Original Coverage

HBCU Original was on the scene, capturing every moment — from exclusive interviews with players and coaches, to crowd reactions and sideline energy. Our team spoke to standout athletes, passionate fans, and even a few alumni legends who stopped by to share their insights.

🎥 Catch the full video on our YouTube channel: HBCU Original
🎤 “This was more than a game,” one attendee shared. “It was a family reunion.”

What’s Next for the Bulldogs?

As the team wraps up spring training, excitement is already building for the fall season. The coaching staff is optimistic, players are hungry, and the Bulldog Nation is ready to rally behind its team.

Stay tuned for more updates, exclusive footage, and full game-day coverage — only on HBCU Original.

👏 Meet the Coaching Staff Leading the Charge

Bowie State’s success on and off the field is powered by a dedicated coaching staff working to build champions:

• Kyle Jackson – Head Coach & Inside Linebackers

• Avery Williams – Associate Head Coach / Defensive Coordinator

• Matt Goggans – Offensive Coordinator / Quarterbacks

• Quinn Brown – Offensive Line Coach

• Rod White, Jr. – Safeties / Pass Game Coordinator

• Douglas McNeil III – Wide Receivers Coach

• Anthony Bagley – Assistant Quarterbacks Coach

• Mike Andrews – Special Teams Coordinator

• Adam Gillis, Jr. – Running Backs Coach

• Lorenzo Harrison – Assistant Linebackers Coach

• Chris Pressley – Tight Ends Coach

Their leadership, vision, and passion are evident in every play, every drill, and every student-athlete they mentor.

In HBCU football, “classic” matchups have long been cornerstone events, drawing large crowds and showcasing deep-rooted rivalries. Homecoming games, however, often bring even more excitement—serving as grand reunions for alumni and communities. Both classics and homecomings carry historical significance, often featuring longtime rivals and packed stadiums filled with pride and pageantry.

For the 2025 season, several classic games and homecomings will spotlight at least one FCS-level HBCU team. Along with these, we’re highlighting key matchups like the MEAC/SWAC Challenge and the Celebration Bowl.

Here’s a full look at every HBCU classic and homecoming scheduled for 2025:

Some notable DII homecoming games we’ll be tracking include:

• Oct. 11 | Fayetteville State | Opponent: Livingstone
• Oct. 18 | Morehouse | Opponent: Lane
• Oct. 18 | Winston-Salem State | Opponent: Livingstone
• Oct. 18 | Virginia Union | Opponent: Lincoln (PA)
• Oct. 25 | Clark Atlanta | Opponent: Edward Waters
• Oct. 25 | Virginia State | Opponent: Bluefield State
• Oct. 25 | Lincoln (PA) | Opponent: Elizabeth City State
• Oct. 25 | Savannah State | Opponent: Morehouse
• Nov. 1 | Bowie State | Opponent: Elizabeth City State
• Nov. 1 | Tuskegee | Opponent: Lane

Here are some notable classics featuring DII schools that we’ll be tracking:

• Black College Football Hall of Fame Classic | Virginia Union vs. Miles | Aug. 31 | Location: Canton, OH
• Red Tails Classic | Tuskegee vs. Winston-Salem State | Aug. 31 | Location: Montgomery, AL
• Morehouse-Tuskegee Classic | Morehouse vs. Tuskegee | Oct. 4 |  Location: Columbus, GA
• Fountain City Classic | Fort Valley State at Albany State | Nov. 8 | Location: Albany, GA
• Chicago Football Classic | Teams and Date TBA
• CIAA Championship | Nov. 15 | Location: Durham, NC

Regular season MEAC vs. SWAC contests

In addition to the MEAC-SWAC Challenge played in Week Zero, there are four regular season games where MEAC and SWAC teams will meet on the gridiron.

Free Marketing Services Offered to Boost Business Growth and Alumni Giving

GAUTIER, Miss. – April 15, 2025 – HBCU$™, a new alumni giving and wealth-building network, is set to launch on May 1, 2025, with a bold mission: to help close the multi-billion-dollar public funding gap that has historically disadvantaged Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). By uplifting the entrepreneurs these institutions cultivate, HBCU$™ aims to turn business success into sustainable support for HBCUs.

Founded by Dorsey West, a proud graduate of Tennessee State University, HBCU$™ was inspired by a 2023 report from the U.S. Department of Education and the U.S. Department of Agriculture. The analysis revealed that between 1987 and 2020, HBCU land-grant colleges were underfunded by an estimated $12.6 billion compared to their non-HBCU counterparts—with Tennessee State alone shorted by over $2.1 billion.

“HBCUs are facing severe challenges as budget cuts at both the federal and state levels continue,” said West. “I created HBCU$™ to harness the power of alumni support and private-sector entrepreneurship to help fill that gap.”

The HBCU$™ model is simple yet powerful: it offers free online marketing services to alumni and student-owned businesses. In return, participating businesses donate a portion of their increased revenue to the HBCU of their choice—creating a win-win cycle of economic growth and educational reinvestment.

By spotlighting these businesses through video podcast interviews, member profiles, and an online directory, HBCU$™ not only strengthens the economic impact of HBCU entrepreneurs but also fosters a culture of giving back.

Consumers can join the HBCU$™ community today by signing up for exclusive offers and early access at https://hbcus.biz.
HBCU alumni and student business owners interested in joining the platform can email promote@hbcus.biz to be featured—at no cost.

About HBCU$™
Founded by Tennessee State University alumnus Dorsey West, HBCU$™ is an alumni giving and wealth-building network designed to generate consistent financial support for HBCUs through the success of their entrepreneurs. The platform offers free promotion for HBCU alumni and student-owned businesses, which in turn pledge a portion of revenue gains back to their chosen HBCU. Learn more at https://hbcus.biz.