WILMINGTON, Del. — HBCU Week Foundation welcomed some of the nation’s most influential leaders across entertainment, sports, business, media, and higher education to Wilmington, Delaware, for its 7th Annual HBCU Week Awards Gala at the historic Hotel DuPont. Co-hosted by HBCU Week Foundation Founder Ashley Christopher and Emmy Award-winning actor and Golden Globe nominee Anthony Anderson, the evening celebrated excellence, leadership, and the transformative impact of Historically Black Colleges and Universities while unveiling two new initiatives that will expand opportunities for future generations of HBCU students.
Among the notable attendees were Anthony Anderson, 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, who returned to support the Foundation following her recognition as an honoree at last year’s gala. The evening also welcomed corporate executives, educators, elected officials, HBCU leaders, alumni, and advocates committed to advancing educational access and excellence.
This year’s honorees represented a remarkable cross-section of leaders who continue to shape culture and inspire future generations. Adam Blackstone received the Trailblazer Award for his extraordinary contributions to music and entertainment as a Grammy Award-winning producer, Emmy Award-winning music director, and Tony Award-nominated orchestrator. Phylicia Fant was honored with the Leadership Award for her groundbreaking work as Global Director of Black Music and Culture at Amazon Music and her longstanding commitment to elevating Black artists and culture on a global scale. Robert “Don Pooh” Cummins received the Living Legacy Award in recognition of his impact as an entrepreneur, restaurateur, music executive, and cultural visionary whose influence spans multiple industries. Robert O. Wright III was presented with the Rising Star Award, honoring his achievements as a Division I student-athlete and emerging leader whose dedication, character, and commitment to service embody the future of the HBCU community.
A highlight of the evening came when the HBCU Week Foundation announced the launch of two new scholarship initiatives designed to expand access and opportunity for HBCU students and graduates. Among them was the HBCU Week Sports Scholarship, inspired by the extraordinary leadership and generosity of Rising Star Award recipient Robert O. Wright III. At just 20 years old, Wright pledged $25,000 of his own money to help establish the scholarship, making him one of the youngest major contributors in the Foundation’s history. His investment reflects a deep commitment to ensuring fellow student-athletes have the resources needed to excel academically, athletically, and professionally.
The Foundation also unveiled the HBCU Week Treasurer’s Fellowship Graduate Scholarship, which will support HBCU graduates pursuing advanced degrees in business, finance, economics, public policy, accounting, and related fields. In addition to financial assistance, the fellowship will provide mentorship, leadership development opportunities, and access to industry professionals, helping cultivate the next generation of financial and civic leaders. Together, these initiatives represent the Foundation’s continued commitment to creating pathways for success and investing in the future of the HBCU community.
“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. Robert’s decision to invest in other students at such a young age is a powerful example of leadership in action and reflects exactly what HBCU Week is all about.”
The evening featured a star-studded red carpet, special tributes, inspiring remarks, and memorable moments that highlighted the lasting impact of HBCUs on culture, business, entertainment, sports, and society. As the Foundation continues to expand its reach and impact nationwide, the gala served as both a celebration of achievement and a powerful reminder of the importance of investing in future generations.
For more information about HBCU Week Foundation and its scholarship initiatives, visit www.hbcuweek.org or follow @HBCUWeek on social media.
