HBCU Aware Fest 2026: The Largest HBCU Fundraiser in History
A major cultural moment is on the horizon. One that centers Black excellence, celebrates HBCUs, and directly addresses one of the most pressing challenges facing Black college graduates today: student loan debt.
HBCU Aware Fest 2026 is officially set for Thursday, March 26, 2026, at State Farm Arena, and it is positioned to be the biggest HBCU fundraising event ever held!
Why Aware Fest Matters
The impact of HBCUs on America is undeniable.
• 80% of Black doctors and Black judges are graduates of Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
• 50% of Black engineers and 40% of Black dentists also began their journeys at HBCUs.
• Yet despite these remarkable outcomes, Black bachelor’s degree holders carry an average of $52,000 in student loan debt, a burden that delays major life milestones like buying a home, starting a family, entrepreneurship, and long-term wealth building.
This reality is not just an economic issue; it’s a cultural one. To address it, Student Freedom Initiative and Live Nation Urban partnered to create HBCU Aware Fest, a nationwide call to action and a movement centered around uplifting HBCU students and the institutions that shape them.
A Night of Culture, Purpose, and Power
Held at State Farm Arena, Aware Fest 2026 promises an unforgettable night bringing together entertainers, innovators, HBCU leaders, students, alumni, and supporters. The goal is both simple and historic: raise unprecedented funding to fight student debt for HBCU students nationwide.
The artist lineup features some of the biggest names in music across genres:
John Legend
Jill Scott
Metro Boomin
GloRilla
Common
Tems
Jeezy
Earth, Wind & Fire
Kirk Franklin
PJ Morton
Coco Jones
Yolanda Adams
Adam Blackstone
Travis Greene
Mickey Guyton
And more to be announced…
In addition to musical performances, the event will spotlight appearances and messages from leaders shaping culture, business, and community impact, including:
Robert F. Smith
Chris Paul
Mayor Andre Dickens
Dr. Jamal Bryant
Larenz Tate
Angel Reese
Big Boi
2 Chainz
Ryan Clark
And others committed to supporting HBCU students.
Where Every Dollar Goes
Aware Fest isn’t just a concert, it’s a mission. Every dollar raised goes directly to the Student Freedom Initiative, a 501(c)(3) organization dedicated to reducing student loan debt, creating financial alternatives, and expanding economic mobility for HBCU students and graduates.
Through innovative programs, resources, and long-term strategies, SFI is building pathways for Black students to thrive during and after their college experience.
Join the Movement
HBCUs built America’s Black middle class and talented tench. They produced generations of leaders across medicine, law, engineering, politics, education, entertainment, and the arts. Now, Aware Fest aims to protect and expand that legacy.
Tickets and more information are available at AWAREFEST.ORG.
Be part of history. Be part of the movement. Support HBCUs and the students who continue to shape our culture and our future.
