In 1837, the saga of historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) began a sturdy foundation that arguably built the African American community.

HBCUs yield more than a quarter of all African-American graduates in the country. In the 2017-2018 academic school year, 48,300 degrees were conferred by HBCUs. Every 365 days, nearly fifty thousand young minds complete a life changing cultural experience known as the HBCU-experience. After this educational rite of passage, graduates have the tools, knowledge, experience and network to accomplish their dreams and change the world. Many civil rights leaders, doctors, religious leaders, bankers, writers, Olympians, lawyers, musicians, engineers, actors, humanitarians, professional athletes, educators, scientists, and politicians that are woven into the advancement of The United States of America and beyond hail from Black colleges. Right now, more than ever, we need these leaders.

For the sixth year in a row, we recognize the significant achievement of alumni from these prestigious powerhouses. Various industries of former Top 30ers include sports, STEM, entertainment, media, business, public service and fashion. Check out the former classes here. From the youngest person to ever make the list, Clark Atlanta University’s Kahlil Darden at 19-years-old, to international superstar, Lil Yachty, this year’s top 30 is a diverse group of Black excellence. Congratulations to the 2020 HBCU Top 30 Under 30 Class.

31Here’s the Full List – 2020 HBCU Top 30 Under 30

CandidateCollege
Remoshay NelsonHoward University
Lil Yachty - Miles Parks McCollumAlabama State University
Shawn WilkinsonMorehouse College
Lachavious SimmonsTennessee State University
Vena "Pretty Vee" ExcellSaint Augustine's University
Dr. Nishan PressleyNorfolk State University
Donte MillerMorehouse College
Terrance OrrClaflin University
Corey ArvingerHoward University
Rhea WallsTexas Southern University
Brittany ClaybrooksFlorida A&M University
Andres MartinGrambling State University
Archie Clay IIITuskegee University
Dr. Trevor ThomasHoward University
Asia WareHampton University
Shelby TinsleyFlorida A&M University
Richard Lucas IIIBowie State University
Kahlil DardenClark Atlanta University
Dr. Brennan DuBoseHoward University
Frank D. Dorsey, IIUniversity of Arkansas at Pine Bluff
Jessica L. BrownHoward University
Jeffron SmallsNorth Carolina A&T University
Keith PoughHoward University
Justin ShaiferHampton University
D'Ante SmithLincoln University (PA)
Wen-kuni CeantHoward University
Dr. Darryl Hylton, Jr.Norfolk State University
Monique A. MitchellFlorida A&M University
Jakeim Jackson-BellTexas Southern University
Mikkyo McDanielMorgan State University
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