Rochester hosted the inaugural Frederick Douglass HBCU Football Classic, celebrating the rich legacy of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) this past weekend. The event brought the community together at the Rochester Community Sports Complex, featuring a football game between Central State University and Albany State University, along with tailgate parties, performances, and food.
The event aimed to raise awareness about HBCUs among local youth, providing an opportunity for them to learn about the educational and cultural contributions these institutions have made for over a century. Attendees were encouraged to explore the unique opportunities HBCUs offer, which collectively enroll nearly 300,000 students annually.
In addition to the game, the event emphasized the importance of education and leadership, with community leaders encouraging youth to see what’s possible beyond high school and how HBCUs can play a role in their future success. The Albany State Rams won the game, defeating the Central State Marauders 28-7.
The Classic not only highlighted the sports aspect of HBCU culture but also fostered engagement and recruitment efforts, aiming to inspire Rochester students to consider HBCUs as a pathway to success in both academics and community service.
