The Atlanta University Center (AUC) has connected Black students and cultures worldwide for well over a century. This September, Morehouse University, one of the AUC tetrad, continued in the spirit of connecting and building as the gracious host of EBONY’s first HBCU Yard Fest.
For the 2024 edition, EBONY HBCU Yard Fest was a unique, playful, yet ultra-informative event for Morehouse, Clark, Spelman and Morris Brown students. The festival allowed students to take a load off between classes and engage with one another while getting some solid post-college life information, much of which concerns building wealth and finances.
Held on the eve of homecoming season, the energy was palpable. The festival combined prizes, great food and a lively discussion with entrepreneur Cam Newton. In addition, the event included The Young Gifted & Black Talent Show, a concert with rising artists, and spaces for students to zero in on wellness and financial education resources.
One of the festival’s most sought-after events was the live recording of the Funky Friday podcast with its host, Cam Newton, who was tasked with interviewing EBONY CEO, Eden Bridgeman for a discussion of game-changing financial jewels.
“Higher education remains crucial for the Black community because it offers access to social mobility, economic empowerment and the cultivation of leadership that drives systemic change. While the narrative around alternative pathways to success is valid, colleges—especially HBCUs—offer safe, empowering spaces for Black students to explore their identity, build networks and gain skills that are still highly valued in many fields,” said Bridgeman.
The conversation was powerful and engaging. EVP and Head of External Engagement Gigi Dixon of Wells Fargo weighed in to clarify things like building equity and transforming finances through budget. “My expectation is that students will really understand financial concepts that will help them stabilize themselves financially and grow wealth,” Dixon expressed.
Bustling with excited students in every direction, the festival’s core was undoubtedly among the crowd at the live performances, which included Festival host Dai Time and a buzz-worthy lineup of artists, including Chikoruss and Wanmor.
EBONY HBCU Yard Fest was fertile ground for the students, with plenty of great opportunities, including the chance to win one of three cash prizes, with a grand prize of $5,000, by participating in the Young, Gifted & Black Talent Show.
Students also received complimentary items from the diverse rollout of local vendors, including school supplies, beauty samples and more. It was impossible not to feel the warmth and inspiration walking through the crowded block, which was laced with students, faculty and staff, leading to the event stage.
The festival wrapped up with a performance by musical artist OMB Peezy and closing remarks from the host. This event will change how young people think about community and building. With students from around the world in attendance, its impact will be far-reaching.
Thanks to our sponsors, the first EBONY HBCU Yard Fest made a big impression on the AUC, leaving everyone excited to see which HBCU will host next.
A big THANK YOU to Wells Fargo, 300 Entertainment, WestCare Georgia, ACLU Georgia, League of Women Voters of Georgia, Georgia NAACP, The Urban League of Greater Atlanta, Positively Water and Elevate Salon & Spa. Keep sharing your photos with the hashtag #EBONYYardFest24 and stay tuned to find out where the EBONY HBCU Yard Fest will go next in the spring… you won’t want to miss it!
