The highly anticipated 2024 HBCU Honors, Presented by Procter & Gamble is set to electrify Howard University’s iconic Cramton Auditorium when it tapes in front of a live audience on Thursday, November 14, 2024.  This groundbreaking annual celebration, now in its second year, shines a spotlight on the extraordinary accomplishments of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) graduates who have made a monumental impact across industries.  Hosted by the dynamic actress, comedian and proud HBCU alumna Kym Whitley, this year’s star-studded event honors trailblazers who embody the inspiring theme, “Celebrating Black Excellence.”  HBCU Honors will debut on BET on Sunday, December 1, at 8 p.m. ET.

A graduate of Fisk University, Whitley is an award-winning actress and comedian who brings her signature humor and heart to the stage.  

“Hosting HBCU Honors is truly a privilege,” she shared. “I owe so much to my time at Fisk University.  HBCUs gave me the tools to succeed, and it’s an honor to stand on that stage and celebrate the incredible people who are making history today.  This event is all about Black excellence and I’m thrilled to be a part of it.”

HBCU Honors celebrates the remarkable achievements of industry icons, including Hollywood powerhouse Will Packer—a record-breaking, Emmy-nominated filmmaker, television producer and NFL team owner.  Packer will be honored for his transformative impact on the entertainment industry, where he has reshaped the narrative for Black talent, creatives and audiences alike.  Reflecting on this recognition, Packer expressed his gratitude.

“HBCUs have been the cornerstone of Black success for generations.  My time at Florida A&M University shaped who I am as a filmmaker and as a person.  Receiving this honor from a platform that celebrates that legacy is incredibly meaningful to me.  I’m proud to be part of this event that champions Black stories and excellence.”

Former NASA Engineer Dr. Lonnie Johnson will be recognized for his trailblazing work in science and engineering, where he’s well known for his invention of the Super Soaker and his great contributions to space exploration.  Dr. Johnson continues to inspire future generations of young Black scientists with his innovations in clean energy.  Additionally, Jewel Burks Solomon will be celebrated for her visionary leadership in tech entrepreneurship and her pivotal role at Collab Capital, where she has opened doors and bridged the funding gap for diverse founders to thrive.  

The show kicks off with an exhilarating performance by the renowned DC Go-Go band Be’la Dona, setting the stage for an unforgettable night.  Highlights include powerful performances honoring the rich legacy of Black excellence, featuring GRAMMY Award-winning artists Fantasia and Hezekiah Walker, along with “The Voice” standout Mac Royals.  In a heartfelt family moment, Will Packer’s children, Nija and Zion Packer will join the celebration, while gospel star Erica Campbell and her daughter, Krista Campbell—a proud Spelman College student—come together for another memorable family performance.  Hip-hop legend MC Lyte and the Virginia Union University Gospel Choir also deliver epic moments with surprise collaborations that will captivate the audience. 

Other special moments include a performance by GRAMMY Award-winning acts such as spoken word artist J Ivy, who will pay tribute to the Divine Nine with a powerful poetic piece accompanied by the soulful vocals of Tarrey Torae.  Representatives from each Black Greek-letter organization will take part in a collective honoring their enduring legacy and impact.  Breakthrough talent Imani-Grace Cooper, this year’s HBCU Rising Star, will also dazzle the audience with her performance. 

Presenting sponsor Procter & Gamble is committed to highlighting the far-reaching impact of HBCU trailblazers as part of its commitment to celebrating and uplifting Black excellence through content that reflects the everyday lives of the consumers its brands serve.  Eric Austin, Vice President of Marketing and Media Innovation at Procter & Gamble, expressed the company’s excitement about the partnership.  

“Our brands are proud to support initiatives that amplify the impact and importance of HBCUs. Our partnership with HBCU Honors is a testament to our ongoing commitment to recognize the success and legacy within the Black community,” said Austin. “Together, we celebrate the achievements of those who inspire and lead the way for future generations.”

Throughout the show, special segments will also highlight the extraordinary contributions of other key HBCU alumni with a corporate spotlight video tribute honoring the visionary Broccoli City Founders, Brandon McEachern and Marcus Allen; Tanya Lombard, AT&T Vice President, Global Public and External Affairs and Carmen Brown, Director of Global Media Foundation and Consumer Marketing at Meta.