The 2022 class of HBCU Buzz’s HBCU Top 30 Under 30 is here! For the past eight years, we have been honoring the inspiring change-makers that HBCUs have produced and this year’s class is nothing short of HBCU greatness! We’re highlighting students who have been making strides in their fields and showing the world what HBCU grads can do. 

The numbers don’t lie, according to UNCF, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) enroll 10% of all African American students and produce almost 20% of all African American graduates. Additionally, 25% of African American graduates with STEM degrees come from HBCUs. These illustrious institutions have produced countless civil rights leaders, doctors, religious leaders, bankers, writers, Olympians, lawyers, musicians, engineers, actors, humanitarians, professional athletes, educators, scientists, and politicians.

HBCUs provide the foundation and support needed for their students to go out into the world and become prestigious leaders. This year we continue to honor HBCU students from various backgrounds achieving excellence and making their alma mater proud.  Some of the leaders featured include a rocket scientist, an award-winning Broadway actor, accomplished doctors, and more. 

We’re excited for this Homecoming season to partner with DIAGEO and its brands CÎROC, Crown Royal, Tequila Don Julio, and Tanqueray to honor Black changemakers creating lasting change in their communities to uplift and celebrate Black excellence. Together with DIAGEO at the Mecca of HBCUs, we will honor the next generation of Black leaders and industry changemakers at the 30 Under 30 Reception and Alumni Bison Ball to toast to each honoree’s impact and impressive achievements to build a better future.

3. Hope Giselle – Alabama State University

Hope Giselle is an Alabama State University alum and a national organizer, author, artist, and activist. It was at her alma mater that she got her start in activism, facilitation, and inclusion. While navigating through college as an LGBT student at a conservative HBCU, she courageously co-founded and governed their first LGBT organization. Giselle graduated with a Master’s in Fine Arts as the first openly trans woman to do so at the institution as well as acquiring certifications from both Harvard and SHRM. She has served as a contracted master inclusion specialist and HR consultant while continuing to advocate for trans and black bodies in both public and private spaces.

Hope’s nearly one-decade career as an activist, master facilitator, and author was the catalyst for establishing her own non-profit organization AllowMe, which supports LGBTQIA+youth of color in their journey to becoming productive leaders, artists, and activists. Currently, Hope serves as the Director of Get Phluid and Chief Community Outreach Consultant at Plume Health, while in tandem working with organizations such as the Human Rights Campaign (HRC), Freedom for all Americans, LGBT University, ITEquality, and TransTech Social. Giselle is also a two-time best-selling author of Until I Met Black Men and Becoming Hope which focuses on her lived experiences growing up as a black trans woman in the south. Her selfless efforts aid to ensure that the voices of the communities she’s a part of are amplified.

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