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- 🎓 Grad SZN, HBCU Wins & A Belated Salute to All the Mamas 💐
🎓 Grad SZN, HBCU Wins & A Belated Salute to All the Mamas 💐
From historic graduations to bold speeches and powerful tributes—this week’s stories celebrate legacy, resilience, and the future of our HBCUs.
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👋🏾 Hey HBCU Fam,
It’s officially Grad SZN! All month long, we’re clapping it up for the Class of 2025—those walking the stage, breaking barriers, and repping their HBCUs with pride. We’re also sending a heartfelt (and fashionably late) Happy Mother’s Day to all the queens who hold us down.
This week’s stories remind us why our institutions matter—from Curtis Lawrence III’s historic FAMU journey to Brad Holmes’ mic-drop moment at NC A&T, plus a powerful message from Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett in the face of adversity.
✊🏾 Jasmine Crockett Responds to Threats
Congresswoman Jasmine Crockett is speaking out after Tougaloo College reportedly received threats following her keynote commencement speech—calling the backlash “disturbing” and vowing not to be silenced.
💙💛 Brad Holmes to NCAT Grads: ‘Be Dangerously Successful’
Detroit Lions GM and proud Aggie alum Brad Holmes pulled no punches during his North Carolina A&T’s commencement speech—droppin’ gems on grit, legacy, and owning your future with pride.
🕊️ Tragedy Strikes HBCU Alumna
A Clark Atlanta University graduate has tragically lost her life in a California workplace shooting, sparking mourning across the HBCU community and renewed calls for workplace safety and justice.
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🎓 Curtis Lawrence III: Youngest FAMU Grad Chose HBCU Over Harvard
Curtis Lawrence III made history as the youngest student ever at FAMU when he enrolled at 16—and now, he’s graduating like a boss.
Why FAMU? He chose community over clout, and that HBCU love helped shape him every step of the way.
Now he’s walking that stage, reppin’ legacy, purpose, and the power of choosing what feels like home.
💼 Internship Opportunity: Summer Data Analyst Intern
Explore the world of data analysis this summer with a dynamic internship designed for students eager to apply their skills in real-world settings. This opportunity offers hands-on experience in interpreting data to inform meaningful outcomes.
📅 Deadline: Rolling
🎓 Scholarship Opportunity: Myra L. Austin Taylor Memorial Scholarship
In honor of Myra L. Austin Taylor’s legacy, this scholarship supports students who exemplify resilience, leadership, and a passion for making a difference in their communities.
📅 Deadline: May 23, 2025
👉🏾 Visit our Scholarships Page for more HBCU scholarships!
🌟 Upcoming Career Fair: HBCU Connect Annual Conference & Career Fair
Connect with top employers, gain valuable insight, and expand your professional network at the HBCU Connect Annual Conference & Career Fair, a premier event designed to elevate your career path.
🗓️ When: June 26-28, 2025 | 📍 Where: Washington, DC
🌟 Shaq’s Game-Changing HBCU Support
Shaquille O’Neal is making major moves off the court—his inspiring financial and philanthropic commitments are helping reshape the HBCU landscape, from tech to athletics.
🌟 His Mission: O’Neal aims to uplift Black students and communities through expanded opportunities, stronger infrastructure, and increased visibility for HBCUs nationwide.
🗣️ His Impact: From surprise donations to long-term investments, Shaq is proving that real champions build legacies far beyond the game.
🏈 Shifting Tides in HBCU Football
A wave of speculation and excitement is building after news surfaced that could dramatically shift the future of HBCU football. According to reports, Prairie View A&M University is reportedly exploring a move to the Southland Conference—a shift that would make it the first HBCU to join the NCAA Division I FCS league in modern history.
This potential transition could impact everything from recruiting pipelines to national exposure, signaling a new era of competitive positioning for HBCUs across the country. It also raises questions about conference realignment, resource allocation, and long-term strategic planning for other HBCUs looking to elevate their athletic programs.
🎉 Networking Event: Connections to Career Moves Webinar
Sharpen your visibility and influence in your professional journey with this impactful webinar focused on strategic networking. Learn how to build meaningful connections that open doors to new opportunities.
🗓️ When: May 22, 2025, 6:00 PM EST | 📍 Where: Virtual
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That’s a wrap for this week, but the celebration continues.
Whether it’s Shaq building legacies beyond the court, or the community rallying in the wake of tragedy—these moments show us that the HBCU spirit is unstoppable.
Keep lifting each other up. Keep making history. And if you haven’t already—go hug ya mama.
Until next time,
✊🏾 Your HBCU Roundup Team