On October 21st, HBCU Buzz in partnership with DIAGEO and its brands CÎROC, Crown Royal, Tequila Don Julio and Tanqueray, honored the next generation of Black leaders and industry changemakers at its 30 Under 30 Reception and inaugural Alumni Bison Ball.
For the past eight years, HBCU Buzz has honored inspiring HBCU grads who’ve made an impact in their fields and are examples of what HBCU grads can do. This year’s impressive honorees include award-winning actors, doctors, a rocket scientist and more.
“I’m so proud of the growth and progress that HBCU Buzz has made over the years. Our mission was to not only unify the HBCU community but to also shine a light on the greatness that comes from them,” said Luke Anthony Lawal Jr., founder of HBCU Buzz. “Now, thirteen years later, I’m proud to have supporters like DIAGEO and its brands to stand with us as we celebrate HBCU pride and give a larger platform to this inspiring group of 30 under 30 honorees as we celebrate Black excellence together.”
DIAGEO continues its commitment to Black education and leadership by supporting HBCUs this Homecoming season. As part of DIAGEO’s 2021 pledge of $10 million to create permanent endowments at 25 HBCUs across the country, DIAGEO continues to provide students and faculty with an experiential approach and resources that complement traditional learning. The program will include DIAGEO providing mentorship, lecturers for faculty and students and curriculum development assistance through its Innovation Hub.
“This partnership is a message that the private sector, as the public sector, must come together to ensure that HBCUs are supported at the appropriate level so we can fulfill our special and unique mission to society,” said David Hall, president of the University of the Virgin Islands. “This endowment shows how DIAGEO is embracing a vision of student support and institutional transformation.”
In November, DIAGEO will partner with Grambling State University and Southern University at the 48th Annual Bayou Classic in New Orleans. Throughout the weekend, CÎROC, Crown Royal, Tequila Don Julio, and Tanqueray will join in honoring this historic rivalry through the lens of the community, impact, and inclusivity.
“For over a century HBCUs have blazed trails in several disciplines for countless Black professionals and still remain a haven, and a refuge for many,” said Malcolm Ellis, Business Resource Group at DIAGEO North America and Howard University Alum. “This partnership supports pipelining of talent into business and industry.”
