It is homecoming season …
And while the 2020 coronavirus global pandemic has stopped the battle of the bands, the big game, bigger tailgate, and the legacy of school pride from pushing forth, nothing will stop the energy behind the annual HBCU family reunion from beaming forth. Black college grads and upper-classmen know this to be a fact.
And while many private institutions like Spelman and Morehouse seem to have successfully pulled off a virtual homecoming (including the fundraising campaign that comes along with the fellowship), other schools need a little more assistance during these tough times.
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This is where legacy financial entities like the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) steps in.
The college scholarship and grant-giving organization have planned to host their own virtual fundraiser and concert on October 25, called #RISEHC2K20.
The event will feature some of the culture’s most exciting influencers in efforts to raise money for the Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Predominantly Black Institutions throughout the nation. The celebration and concert will stream on TMCF’s YouTube and Facebook channels and simulcast on HBCU Nation TV. Dr. Harry L. Williams, President & CEO of TMCF believes that this is a great way for people to support the vision of the next generation — moving to shape our world.
“COVID-19 has greatly impacted many of our member-schools and the students who attend them,” said Dr. Harry L. Williams, President & CEO of TMCF. “Investment in HBCUs and supporting these storied institutions is so important—whether you attended one or not. We must ensure that our schools remain vibrant and competitive for future generations to come.”
The full day of programming, led by TMCF ambassador and former scholarship recipient, actor and entertainment reporter Terrence J and Omega Psi Phi fraternity brother, NBA All-Star and Hall of Famer Shaquille O’Neal, will remind you just why supporting these pillars of education are important — while inspiring you to dig deep in your pockets.
The concert and web-a-thon will feature performances and appearances by folk like Ne-Yo, T-Pain, BIG K.R.I.T. Anthony Hamilton, Jill Scott, 2 Chainz, Rotimi, India Arie, Rapsody, T.I., Charlamagne tha God, David Banner, Mo’nique, Lucky Daye, Affion Crockett, Laz Alonzo, Leon Bridges and more.
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“The HBCU Experience is like none other,” one of the performers, David Banner, stated. “It was life-changing to be around people who look like you yet still had vast differences. It provided a safe space for US by US. It reinforced the confidence needed to navigate in this world. It forced us to network and lean on one another for resources. It slowed us what we were made of. I am grateful to pay it forward with the Thurgood Marshall College Fund and the RISE HC2K20 Concert.”
Partners for #RISE HCK20 include the following brands, big businesses committed to the advancement of Black and Brown college students, are Amazon, Moet Hennessy USA, 1-800-Contacts, Hourglass Cosmetics, Wendy’s, Adtalem Global Education, and The Hershey Company. For more information on #RISE HC2K20, visit tm-cf.org/RISE.
