On Saturday, music mogul Sean “Diddy” Combs presented a $1 million check to Jackson State University through his Sean Combs Foundation to bolster its football team.
Diddy made the sizeable contribution at a football game between Jackson State University and South Carolina State taking place at Georgia State’s Center Parc Stadium.
The hip-hop icon initially pledged the donation at the 2022 BET Awards while accepting his lifetime achievement award, with details finalized over the past year. According to the university, Combs will invest in JSU football with installments over the next several years.
“If it wasn’t for HBCUs, I wouldn’t be here,” Combs, a graduate of Howard University, told ESPN.
“As someone who went to Howard University and understands the invaluable experience of attending historically Black colleges and universities, it’s important that we all do our part to protect and preserve their legacy,” said Combs of the donation. “This contribution to Jackson State isn’t just about making a financial donation, it’s about giving back to a part of our culture that has changed countless lives and assuring HBCUs receive the support they deserve.”
Combs presented the $1 million check to Jackson State University Acting President Dr. Elayne Hayes-Anthony, and Vice President / Director of Athletics Ashley Robinson at the end of the first quarter of the game.
“This contribution by one of the world’s greatest and most influential entertainers and businessmen is another historic moment in the legendary history of Jackson State University,” said Robinson. “Beyond the financial investment, it’s what it represents that is paramount – the belief in the value of our football student-athletes both on and off the field, which provides an elite pathway to current and future successes.”
Earlier in the day, prior to his donation to JSU, Diddy announced a $1 million investment fund in partnership with Earn Your Leisure (EYL) and its founders, Rashad Bilal and Troy Millings at Invest Fest in Atlanta. According to a press release, the funds will go toward financial literacy efforts that put “the investment strategies discussed on EYL into action” and offer “a practical model for economic empowerment.”
