WILMINGTON, Del. — Leaders from across entertainment, sports, business, media, and higher education gathered in Delaware for the 7th Annual HBCU Week Awards Gala, an evening that celebrated achievement, honored influential changemakers, and unveiled two new scholarship initiatives designed to support future generations of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) students.
Hosted at the historic Hotel DuPont, the gala was co-hosted by HBCU Week Foundation Founder Ashley Christopher and Emmy Award-winning actor Anthony Anderson. The event brought together prominent figures committed to advancing educational access and opportunity through the continued support of HBCUs.
Among the attendees were ESPN personality Stephen A. Smith, Grammy Award-winning producer and music director Adam Blackstone, Amazon Music executive Phylicia Fant, entrepreneur and music executive Robert “Don Pooh” Cummins, and media personality Loren LoRosa, along with educators, elected officials, corporate executives, HBCU leaders and alumni.
Honoring Leaders Making an Impact
The evening recognized individuals whose contributions continue to shape culture, business and community advancement.
Adam Blackstone received the Trailblazer Award for his accomplishments as a Grammy Award-winning producer, Emmy Award-winning music director and Tony Award-nominated orchestrator. Throughout his career, Blackstone has helped shape some of the entertainment industry’s most celebrated performances while creating opportunities for the next generation of creatives.
Phylicia Fant was honored with the Leadership Award for her work as Global Director of Black Music and Culture at Amazon Music. Fant has played a pivotal role in elevating Black artists and expanding opportunities for diverse voices within the music industry.
Entrepreneur and cultural visionary Robert “Don Pooh” Cummins received the Living Legacy Award in recognition of his impact across music, business, hospitality and entrepreneurship. His career has spanned multiple industries while helping shape and support Black culture through innovative ventures and leadership.
Robert O. Wright III earned the Rising Star Award, recognizing his achievements as a Division I student-athlete and emerging leader. His commitment to service and dedication to supporting fellow students became one of the evening’s most inspiring stories.
New Scholarship Programs Expand Opportunities for HBCU Students
A major highlight of the gala came with the announcement of two new scholarship initiatives aimed at increasing educational access and creating pathways to professional success for HBCU students and graduates.
The newly launched HBCU Week Sports Scholarship was inspired by Robert O. Wright III, who pledged $25,000 of his own funds to help establish the program. At just 20 years old, Wright’s contribution makes him one of the youngest major donors in the Foundation’s history.
The scholarship is designed to support student-athletes pursuing academic and athletic excellence while preparing for future professional opportunities.
The Foundation also introduced the HBCU Week Treasurer’s Fellowship Graduate Scholarship, which will provide financial support for HBCU graduates pursuing advanced degrees in business, finance, economics, accounting, public policy and related fields.
In addition to scholarship funding, fellowship recipients will gain access to mentorship opportunities, leadership development programs and professional networks designed to help cultivate the next generation of financial and civic leaders.
Together, the two initiatives reflect the Foundation’s ongoing mission to invest in the future of HBCU students and expand opportunities beyond the classroom.
Investing in the Next Generation
“The HBCU Week Awards Gala is a celebration of achievement, purpose, and possibility,” said Ashley Christopher, Founder of HBCU Week Foundation. “This year’s honorees embody excellence in its highest form, and we are proud to recognize their accomplishments while simultaneously investing in the next generation of HBCU leaders through these new scholarship initiatives.”
Christopher also highlighted Wright’s contribution as an example of leadership in action, noting that his willingness to invest in other students reflects the core mission of HBCU Week.
Celebrating the Legacy and Future of HBCUs
Throughout the evening, guests enjoyed a star-studded red carpet, special tributes and inspiring remarks that underscored the lasting impact of HBCUs on American culture, business, entertainment and public service.
As HBCU Week Foundation continues to expand its national reach, the gala served as both a celebration of excellence and a reminder that investing in students remains one of the most effective ways to strengthen communities and create future leaders.
Founded to encourage high school students to attend HBCUs while providing scholarship opportunities and professional development resources, HBCU Week Foundation continues to champion educational access and support institutions that have long served as engines of opportunity for Black students across the country.
For more information about HBCU Week Foundation and its scholarship programs, visit hbcuweek.org.
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