In the current climate of cutting programs that honor the brilliance of Black students, the HBCU Week Foundation remains committed to recognizing Black students who are poised to excel in higher education and beyond.

This 6th annual HBCU Week Awards Gala, which will take place on June 20 in Wilmington, Del., is the premier fundraising event to support HBCU Week’s mission of increasing enrollment in Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and providing scholarships for matriculation. The organization also establishes a seamless transition from undergraduate studies to corporate America.

In the face of ongoing challenges and a shifting political climate that has placed Diversity, Equity and Inclusion initiatives under scrutiny, the HBCU Week Foundation remains resolutely committed to its core mission. It continues to invest in the educational success and professional advancement of Black students.

This year’s honorees are actor Anthony Anderson, media personality Loren Larosa and Ebonie Ward, founder of Eleventh & Co., all of whom have championed HBCUs and elevated diversity within their fields.

“The 6th Annual HBCU Week Awards Gala is more than a celebration; it’s a powerful reminder of why diversity matters. Through this event, we’re not only raising critical funds to support scholarships and enrollment at HBCUs, but we’re also reinforcing our commitment to creating pathways for Black students to thrive in higher education and beyond,” shared Ashley Christopher, Founder and CEO of the HBCU Week Foundation. “Diversity is not a trend, it’s a necessity, and this gala ensures we continue building a future where opportunity is equitable and excellence is the standard.”

To date, HBCU Week has facilitated more than 10,000 on-the-spot college acceptances and awarded over $100 million in scholarships, including the foundation’s landmark partnership with the American Chemistry Council, which awarded 1,000 scholarships worth $40,000 each to students pursuing STEM degrees at HBCUs, a major milestone in broadening access to high-demand, high-paying career paths for underrepresented students.
The gala will welcome distinguished guests, corporate partners and supporters from across the country to celebrate the contributions of this year’s honorees and to champion the enduring legacy of HBCUs. Proceeds from the event will directly support scholarships and year-round programming designed to ensure HBCU students are equipped for academic success and career readiness.