Claflin University says it is currently “exploring options” after social media users raised concerns about the HBCU’s apparent decision to book R&B singer Brian McKnight for its Presidential Scholarship Gala.
The school’s message — posted as an image by university accounts — reads:
“Claflin University values and respects the perspectives of our constituents and stakeholders. We take your concerns regarding the artist for the Scholarship Gala seriously and are currently exploring options. Thank you for your loyal and continued support as we work to ensure this event is a beacon of light for our institution while raising needed funds to support student scholarships.” — Dr. Dwaun J. Warmack, President.
The pushback stems from a string of public controversies involving McKnight that have drawn a lot of attention. Recent reporting documents tense family disputes and inflammatory social-media posts by the singer — including remarks that critics highlighted, such as calling his estranged children “products of sin,” which many outlets covered and many (former) fans blasted when the comments surfaced in 2024.
McKnight has also been the center of online criticism after posting about a large ($8.8 million) judgment in a legal dispute with his ex-wife and celebrating his “win” shortly after his son, Niko, passed away from his battle with cancer. Fans thought his celebration was premature and disgusting, given the circumstances of his son’s death. Separately, McKnight legally changed his name to Brian Kainoa Makoa Sr. to match his son’s (with current wife Leilani Mendoza, whom he married in 2017) name, despite already having a son named Brian McKnight Jr, thus further distancing himself from his kids from his previous marriage.
News outlets note that members of the “Back At One” singer’s family and fanbase condemned McKnight’s actions, and coverage of this commentary has fueled the Claflin backlash, labeling him a problematic fit for a scholarship fundraising event at an HBCU. Those reports and the conversations they sparked about McKnight prompted alumni and supporters to press the university for clarity.
Claflin’s statement does not name McKnight or their next steps. As the school evaluates options for its 31st Presidential Scholarship Gala, organizers must balance fundraising aims with community concerns.
