By Steven J. Gaither | HBCU Gameday
Updated August 15, 2025, 1:53 AM

North Carolina A&T, the nation’s largest HBCU, has completed $30 million in residence hall enhancements just in time for the 2025-26 academic year. The upgrades come as the university gears up for an anticipated enrollment of more than 15,000 students in 2026.

Major Infrastructure Improvements

The university prioritized key maintenance projects across its housing facilities. Crews serviced 1,500 HVAC units, completed mold remediation in nearly 420 rooms, and finished over 60 plumbing, electrical, roofing, and locksmithing projects. Drone inspections also identified areas in need of pressure washing and cosmetic repairs, ensuring a fresher look to both buildings and outdoor spaces.

Student-Requested Amenities

In addition to critical repairs, A&T launched a new category of “student satisfaction improvements.” The university invested $250,000 in items requested directly by students—ranging from video game systems and ice machines to upgraded lounges. Future amenities will continue to be shaped by student feedback, including input from resident assistants and student government.

Technology for Living and Learning

Digital infrastructure received a significant boost as well. Six residence halls were upgraded with new network cabling, while 42 apartment complexes gained new WiFi access points. On the academic side, the university updated 1,538 lab computers, enhanced technology in 46 smart classrooms, and validated 208 additional classrooms to ensure readiness for the school year.

Strengthening Residential Support

A&T has also reinforced its housing and residence life operations. Key staff positions were filled to support student wellness and daily residential needs. The university adopted the Roompact software platform to streamline housing communication and operations.

“Students compete to get into A&T housing,” said John Lowney, Executive Director of Housing and Residence Life. “We fully appreciate our responsibility to ensure it is attractive, comfortable, safe, and healthy.”

Preparing for the Largest Enrollment in HBCU History

More than half of A&T’s undergraduates live on campus—double the national public university average. As enrollment grows, the university’s commitment to quality housing remains central. A partnership with Toyota North Carolina, through the Aggie Bridge Initiative, will further analyze and improve student service processes.

With new amenities, stronger technology, and expanded support systems, North Carolina A&T is set to welcome students back to a campus experience that reflects its academic excellence—and reaffirms its status as the largest HBCU in the nation.

By Tolly Carr – HBCU Gameday | Updated August 6, 2025

At just ten years old, Kendall Rae Johnson—Georgia’s youngest certified farmer—has earned a full scholarship to South Carolina State University (SC State), one of the nation’s leading HBCUs. The award honors her exceptional achievements in agriculture and reflects HBCUs’ commitment to nurturing the next generation of Black leaders.

A Campus Visit Turned Life-Changer

While touring 1890 land-grant HBCUs with her family, Kendall Rae visited SC State’s 300-acre Research & Demonstration Farm in Orangeburg, SC. There, she met SC State President Alexander Conyers, who surprised her with the 1890 Agriculture Innovation Scholarship—valued at $83,598—covering tuition, fees, and room and board.

President Conyers praised her dedication:

“We were blown away by Kendall Rae’s focus and maturity. She speaks with passion about crop cycles, soil health, and even longhorn cattle. Her future is bright.”

From Backyard Garden to Certified Farmer

Kendall Rae’s farming journey began at age 3 alongside her great-grandmother. By 6, she became Georgia’s youngest certified farmer. Now, she manages nearly an acre of land, growing strawberries, tomatoes, apples, okra, and more. Her accomplishments have drawn national attention, inspiring other young people to explore agriculture.

Leading Through Education and Advocacy

Kendall Rae founded Kendall Rae’s Green Heart, a nonprofit teaching children about farming, sustainability, and entrepreneurship. As a USDA National Urban Agriculture Youth Ambassador, she champions food justice and agricultural education. Her father, Quentin Johnson, credits her for transforming their family’s lifestyle:

“She pulled me into this. Now we’re all growing together—literally.”

Big Goals for the Future

Kendall Rae dreams of owning at least 100 acres of farmland and raising longhorn cattle. She’s particularly excited about SC State’s international agriculture programs, including goat research in The Gambia.

During her visit, she told staff with a smile:

“I’ll be back in 10 years to see all the new buildings.”

With SC State investing over $250 million in campus development, her timing may be perfect.

The HBCU Impact

This scholarship is a testament to the role HBCUs play in identifying and supporting young Black innovators long before college. President Conyers believes Kendall Rae will make an enduring mark:

“Kendall Rae Johnson is exactly the kind of student we want to support. She’s a future leader—here at SC State and beyond.”

By DJ Beal

CHARLOTTE, N.C. – The Knothole Foundation is proud to present the 6th Annual Diversity in Baseball HBCU Showcase, bringing together more than 70 talented high school athletes for an opportunity to display their skills in front of college coaches—many representing Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

This two-day showcase will run Wednesday, August 13th, and Thursday, August 14th, starting each day at 8:00 AM at the Richard “Stick” Williams Dream Fields & Education Center. Players will participate in on-field instruction, live batting practice, offensive and defensive drills, and more. The second day will feature simulated games, giving athletes a chance to demonstrate their abilities in real-game situations.

In addition to on-field activities, participants will take part in the “Lunch & Learn” series, a special life skills program that includes panel discussions with coaches and other leaders offering guidance on both sports and life beyond the game.

High school baseball players interested in learning more about the event can visit knotholecarolinas.org for details.

A new era is dawning in Black college sports. The HBC4Us Association—a historic alliance between the SWAC, MEAC, SIAC, and CIAA—aims to protect, promote, and advance the legacy of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) through a united voice.

This partnership brings together four influential leaders:

• Sonja O. Stills, Commissioner, Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference (MEAC)

• Dr. Charles McClelland, Commissioner, Southwestern Athletic Conference (SWAC)

• Jackie McWilliams Parker, Commissioner, Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association (CIAA)

• Dr. Anthony Holloman, Commissioner, Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference (SIAC)

A United Vision for HBCU Sports

MEAC Commissioner Sonja Stills described the move as long overdue.
“It’s a way to solidify our group. We’ve been working together since Commissioner Holloman came aboard, meeting monthly. Now, when people—especially Corporate America—approach us, they’ll know they’re dealing with one unified body of institutions.”

At the core of HBC4Us is a shared commitment to preserve HBCU culture, from the pageantry of game day to the traditions that define these schools. The group initially collaborated while advocating to Congress for HBCU athletics, seeking to secure resources and recognition in an evolving college sports environment.

“We want the best for our student-athletes,” Stills emphasized. “This is about keeping HBCU programs strong, relevant, and focused on their mission—graduating student-athletes.”

Tackling Challenges Head-On

Two pressing issues stand out: the transfer portal and NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) opportunities. HBC4Us aims to work with corporate partners to create competitive incentives so that top athletes see HBCUs as their first choice—and their long-term home.

“We want to build a pot of resources for our student-athletes so they can stay, focus, and succeed,” Stills explained.

Building Beyond the Field

HBC4Us will introduce joint programming in:

• Leadership Development

• Mental Health Support

• Conflict Management

These initiatives focus on producing well-rounded athletes prepared for life beyond sports, with scholarships, internships, and mentorship opportunities to support both their athletic and personal growth.

Core Mission Areas of HBC4Us

1. Student-Athlete Leadership & Development – Mentorship, skill building, and holistic support.

2. Preservation of Cultural Heritage – Celebrating the history and traditions of HBCU athletics.

3. Competitive Excellence – Strengthening programs to succeed regionally and nationally.

4. Financial Sustainability & Partnerships – Securing sponsorships and funding for long-term growth.

5. Unified Advocacy – Representing HBCU interests in NCAA governance and public policy.

6. Holistic Welfare – Promoting mental health, academics, and career readiness.

A Friendly Rivalry Remains

While united off the field, the commissioners remain competitive on game day. Stills joked about her upcoming matchup against McClelland at the 2025 MEAC/SWAC Kickoff Challenge on Aug. 23 in Atlanta.
“I love me some Charles McClelland—but I want that hash mark on the MEAC side!”

The MEAC celebrates its 55th anniversary this season. Supporters can donate to the MEAC Foundation’s 55 for 55 Campaign at www.meacsports.com, with proceeds benefiting student-athlete programs across its member schools.

About HBC4Us

Formally established on July 30, 2025, during a leadership retreat at the Salamander Hotel in Washington, D.C., the HBC4Us Association represents the united front of HBCU athletics. It is committed to elevating the profile of these storied programs and ensuring their place in the future of collegiate sports.

“This is a new era of collaboration,” the commissioners said in a joint statement. “We are committed to honoring our legacy while creating opportunities that ensure the competitiveness and sustainability of HBCU athletics for generations to come.”

🏈 2025 HBCU FOOTBALL HOMECOMING SCHEDULE

🎓 Grouped by Conference | 🔥 = Highlight Game

🟣 SWAC (Southwestern Athletic Conference)

🔵 MEAC (Mid-Eastern Athletic Conference)

🔴 CIAA (Central Intercollegiate Athletic Association)

🟠 SIAC (Southern Intercollegiate Athletic Conference)

🟡 NAIA & Independents