Black colleges are the breeding grounds for some of the world’s best lawyers, doctors, teachers, activists, scientists and engineers in the world. It only makes sense that these sane fertile grounds cultivate some of your favorite celebrities. Take a look at these stars from a number of various fields who all enjoyed the historically black college experience before they rose to fame.

Simone Whitmore – Spelman College

Cecil Whitmore

2 Chainz – Alabama State / Virginia State

Matthew Knowles – Fisk University

Eva Marcille – Clark Atlanta University

Michael Sterling – Morehouse College

Elijah Cummings – Howard University

Samuel L. Jackson – Morehouse College

Dr. Jackie – Alcorn State University

Erykah Badu – Grambling State University

Toni Braxton – Bowie State University

Wanda Sykes – Hampton University

April Ryan – Morgan State University / Claflin University (honorary)

Walter Payton – Jackson State University

Terrence J – North Carolina A&T State University