This year’s honorees embody the spirit of Black excellence in action—leaders whose faith, vision, and impact reflect the enduring power of HBCUs to shape culture, inspire generations, and change the world:

David Banner – Cultural Impact Award 

A Grammy-nominated, multi-platinum artist, producer, actor, and activist, David Banner is a dynamic force in music, media, and social impact. A proud graduate of Southern University, Banner has built a career blending creativity, business, and activism to inspire change.

As an actor, Banner’s work includes standout performances across film and television, including his role on BET’s hit drama series The Family Business, where his commanding presence showcases his range as an artist. As the founder and CEO of A Banner Vision, he continues to produce purpose-driven campaigns and entertainment that amplify authentic Black stories. 

Banner’s humanitarian work — including his leadership in organizing relief efforts during Hurricane Katrina — cemented his reputation as a servant-leader whose influence reaches far beyond the stage or screen. His commitment to equity, creativity, and cultural empowerment makes him an enduring example of HBCU excellence in action. 

Pastor Shirley Caesar – Lifetime Achievement Award 

Known worldwide as the “First Lady of Gospel,” Pastor Shirley Caesar has uplifted audiences for more than six decades with her unmatched voice, passion, and message of faith. A proud Shaw University alumna and member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Pastor Caesar has released more than 40 albums, earned 11 GRAMMY Awards, and received the GRAMMY Lifetime Achievement Award for her groundbreaking contributions to gospel music. 

As Senior Pastor of Mount Calvary Word of Faith Church in Durham, North Carolina, Caesar continues to inspire through her ministry and music. Her multigenerational appeal and ability to bridge traditional and contemporary gospel have made her a true cultural icon — most memorably during Thanksgiving season, when her “You Name It” remix (“greens, beans, potatoes, tomatoes…”) became a viral sensation, connecting a whole new generation to the joy and spirit of traditional gospel music. From her powerful sermons to her timeless songs, Caesar remains an enduring symbol of faith, happiness, and excellence. 

Janice Bryant Howroyd – Visionary Founder Award 

A trailblazing entrepreneur and global leader, Janice Bryant Howroyd is the first African American woman to build and own a billion-dollar enterprise. As Founder and CEO of The ActOne Group, she leads operations across 33 countries and serves more than 17,000 clients worldwide. A proud alumna of North Carolina A&T State University and honorary member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., Howroyd’s extraordinary career redefines what it means to lead with purpose. 

Her legacy of mentorship, advocacy, and innovation continues to pave the way for women and entrepreneurs of color worldwide. Howroyd’s story exemplifies the HBCU Honors mission — celebrating those who lead not only with success, but with service and impact. 

Following its breakout 2024 television debut, HBCU Honors returns to BET as its presenting partner, underscoring the network’s commitment to championing stories of excellence, legacy, and leadership that define the HBCU experience. 

This year’s show will be held at the Duke Ellington School of the Arts in Washington, D.C., a world-renowned creative institution that reflects the HBCU Honors mission to inspire, educate, and elevate. 

The 2025 celebration also introduces two powerful new initiatives aimed at discovering and developing the next generation of creative talent: 

The HBCU Honors Rising Star National Talent Search – A nationwide call to find the next great HBCU musical talent. Current HBCU students can submit performance videos by visiting hbcuhonors.org for a chance to perform live on the HBCU Honors stage. The winner will be revealed during the national broadcast on BET and BET Her. Judges include Tony Award–winning actor and Bowie State University alum Myles Frost; American Idol finalist Gabby Samone; GRAMMY-nominated artist Raheem Devaughn, who attended Coppin State University; and HBCU Honors Music Director Shawn Williams. 

The HBCU Honors Media Futures Fellowship – Created by The HBCU Honors Foundation, a 501(c)(3) organization, this workforce development and mentorship program provides hands-on production, storytelling, and marketing experience for HBCU students. The 2025 participating cohort includes students from Johnson C. Smith University, Lincoln University of Missouri, and Spelman College. 

Founded and executive produced by Michelle M. Bailey, a proud Spelman College alumna, HBCU Honors was created to celebrate and safeguard the legacy of Historically Black Colleges and Universities at a time when their contributions to our nation’s social and professional fabric are more vital than ever. As institutions that produce a significant share of the country’s Black doctors, engineers, educators, judges, and executives, HBCUs remain the heartbeat of Black excellence and innovation. 

Through inspiring performances, moving tributes, and cultural storytelling, HBCU Honors continues to amplify the impact of these institutions and the generations of alumni who lead with purpose, resilience, and pride. 

“We’re in a defining moment where the legacy of HBCUs deserves not only to be preserved, but amplified,” said Bailey. “Our return to BET celebrates the unity, pride, and progress that define HBCU excellence – the same excellence that nurtured me at my beloved alma mater, Spelman College. Thanksgiving weekend is the perfect time to honor the institutions that continue to educate, empower, and shape generations of trailblazers.” 

Behind the scenes, a talented creative and strategic team brings HBCU Honors to life. Michele Ghee, Board Chair of The HBCU Honors Foundation, is a trailblazing media executive and advocate for equity who helps guide the Foundation’s strategic direction and impact. Leading the production are Executive Producers Malik Buie (Morgan State University), Michelle M. Bailey, Dorinda Walker (Executive Director, The HBCU Honors Foundation), Sam Walker II, and Quan Lateef-Hill (Howard University), who also serves as Showrunner. Shawn Williams serves as Music Director. The production is overseen by RedSummer TV, known for delivering top-tier live events that captivate audiences. 

For more information, visit www.hbcuhonors.org or follow @HBCU_Honors on social media for exclusive updates, Rising Star talent search details, and the latest announcements on performers, presenters, and show highlights. 

The HBCU Honors Awards Show, premiering on BET and BET Her on Sunday, November 30, at 8 p.m. ET/PT, promises a night of celebration, music, and cultural pride this Thanksgiving weekend. Join us as we honor the legacy of HBCUs and the leaders shaping our collective future. 

MEDIA CONTACTS: 

Mercedes Smith, BET Media Group, Mercedes.Smith@bet.net

Chris Sibley, FrontPage Firm (HBCU Honors Publicity), Chris@frontpagefirm.com

Tosha Whitten, FrontPage Firm (HBCU Honors Publicity), Tosha@frontpagefirm.com