(WASHINGTON, DC): The 2nd Annual HBCU Honors, Presented by Procter & Gamble, brings a one-of-a-kind celebration of Black excellence to television audiences when it airs on BET on Sunday, December 1, 2024, at 8 PM ET. Taped at the historic Cramton Auditorium at Howard University, this star-studded awards show celebrates the remarkable achievements of HBCU alumni, including this year’s major honorees Will Packer, Dr. Lonnie Johnson, and Jewel Burks Solomon.
Hosted by award-winning actress and comedian Kym Whitley, a proud Fisk University alumna, the show highlights the enduring legacy of HBCUs with legendary performances, heartfelt tributes, and powerful moments. Dedicated to the theme “Celebrating Black Excellence,” Whitley sets the tone for an evening filled with inspiration and joy.
“For over 100 years, our schools have produced some of the most influential leaders in the Black community,” she shares. “Our hope and our progress rest on the shoulders of these leaders and the innovation of today’s graduates. Tonight, we celebrate and we honor them.”
One of the many highlights of the evening came from honoree Will Packer, Emmy-nominated filmmaker and Florida A&M University (FAMU) graduate, who was awarded the HBCU Honors Industry Impact Award, presented by Mielle. In an emotional presentation, Packer’s children, Nija Packer and Zion Packer emphasized his journey from an aspiring college student at FAMU to a Hollywood visionary. Taking the stage to a standing ovation, Packer delivers a powerful speech that resonates deeply with the audience.
“I stand on this stage because I was surrounded by a community that told me that I was enough when others told me that I was not,” he shared. “I was supported by folks who told me, ‘you cannot only be good, but you can be great.’ I am honored to receive this award… but I am just one person. I stand as a representative of so many others who are part of a community that is ready to let the world know that we will not be stopped, because we got each other.”
Dr. Lonnie Johnson, a proud Tuskegee University graduate, former NASA engineer, and inventor of the Super Soaker, received the HBCU Honors Innovation Trailblazer Award, presented by Florida A&M University alum Marcos Purty, Vice President of Global Quality, Supplier Quality, and Operational Excellence at General Motors. Dr. Johnson inspired the audience by reflecting on his groundbreaking contributions to science and engineering while underscoring the importance of future innovators. “Black excellence is about setting the example for our youth because they are our legacy. I thank this community for ensuring we build that bridge to the future.”
The evening also celebrated Jewel Burks Solomon, a Howard University graduate, entrepreneur, and advocate for women and diversity in technology. She was presented with the HBCU Honors Founders Award by Kelesha Armand, Spelman College Alumna, and General Counsel of Consumer Banking and Deputy General Counsel of Consumer & Community Banking at JP Morgan Chase. Solomon’s speech reflected her commitment to creating opportunities for underrepresented communities, particularly in technology and entrepreneurship.
“I feel so blessed to be standing here at Howard University, my beloved alma mater, receiving this honor,” she said. “In light of a world that continues to undervalue our work and contributions, I want to remind us all that our dreams matter. Your ideas, paired with your tenacity and the support of your community, can change the world.”
Hosted by Joe Clair and AutumnJoi Live, the HBCU Honors Blue Carpet buzzed with energy as notable guests made their entrance, including Grammy-nominated artist Raheem DeVaughn, HBCU Honors Founder Michelle M. Bailey, tech leaders Jeron Smith and Aloni Ford, reality stars Yandy Smith, Mendeecees Harris, Jr., Karen Huger, Askale Davis and Clifton Petite, alongside community leaders like Baltimore Mayor Brandon M. Scott, State’s Atty. for Prince George’s County Aisha Braveboy, former NFL player Marcus Allen, political strategist/TV host and founder of #WinWithBlackWomen Jotaka Eaddy, The Crown Act founder, Kelli Richardson Lawson, UNCF executive vice president Maurice Jenkins, Congresswoman Joyce Beatty, Fayetteville State University Board Chair Dr. Kimberly Jeffries Leonard, PhD., The Links, Incorporated Eastern Area Director, Lisa Loury Lomas, PhD., Elsie Cooke Holmes, President, Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Chris V. Rey, National President Phi Beta Sigma & President Barber-Scotia College, Maurice Jenkins, Executive Vice President, United Negro College Fund, local TV news personalities Tisha Lewis, Stephen Graddick, Alena Oakes, Marissa Mitchell and Wisdom Martin, creator of Super Bowl Soulful Celebration Melanie Few, Bishop Joel R. Peebles, Prelate of Global United Fellowship, and many more! | 