ATL Standard

The Atlanta Hawks recently hosted their fourth annual "HBCU Night presented by Chase" at State Farm Arena, where the organization celebrated "the educational excellence and unique culture of the more than 100 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)."

The night celebrated and expressed gratitude for the vital role and contributions historically black colleges and universities have played in shaping generations; Camye Mackey, EVP and Chief People, Diversity and Inclusion Officer for the Hawks and State Farm Arena; said in a recent release from the NBA.

"The Atlanta Hawks are excited to highlight the legacy and influence of Historically Black Colleges and Universities and the Black Greek Letter Organizations of the Divine Nine in Atlanta and throughout the world," Mackey said in the release. 

As part of festivities, the Hawks hosted a panel titled "Advancing the Legacy: Empowering the Next Generation Presented by Chase," the release said. The panel included several HBCU alumni.

The speaker's list included Cassandra Joseph (Spelman College director of Corporate Relations and Partnerships), Brigitte Killings (Community Banking & Business Development, managing director (South) for JPMorgan Chase & Co.; Tuskegee University alumna & AKA), Brandi Shelton (Just Add Honey Founder and CEO, Xavier University of Louisiana alumna) and Rashida Winfrey (VP, Senior Business Consultant, JPMorgan Chase & Co., Clark Atlanta University alumna); the release said.

A pregame parade and step show were also on the itinerary, and saxophonist Larry "Laj" J. Smith II performed the U.S. and Canadian national anthems prior to tip-off, the release said.

The evening was hosted by Chase Bank.