With in-person homecoming activities on college campuses cancelled, iHeartMedia launches “HBCU Homecoming Celebration on iHeartRadio,” described as a month-long celebration showcasing Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU). School pride and student achievements will be highlighted on-air across the company’s hip-hop and R&B radio stations, streaming, social channels, Black Creator podcasts and live virtual events.
The celebration, which runs Oct.19 through Nov. 12, will bring together HBCU students and alumni with their favorite musical artists, influencers and entertainment.
The celebration will feature special themed podcast episodes and a month of custom vignettes celebrating Black excellence and achievement, highlighting HBCU alumni and students including singer-songwriters Lionel Richie, Bobby Valentino, Brian McKnight and Toni Braxton; recording artist, actor and activist Killer Mike; actors La La Anthony and Lance Gross; producer, songwriter and DJ Metro Boomin; actor and entertainment reporter Terrence J; recording artist Wale; film producer Will Packer; and iHeart on-air personalities Bev Johnson, Bushman, Charlamagne Tha God, DJ Envy, Kendra G, Kyle Santillian, Mike Evans, Monica Barnes, Queen B and Zach Boog.
“Homecoming is a time of celebration and unity on college campuses across the country. With in-person activities being cancelled due to COVID, the ‘HBCU Homecoming Celebration on iHeartRadio’ will keep our communities connected, engaged and entertained during a challenging time,” Executive VP of Programming Thea Mitchem said in a release. “As a HBCU graduate, I understand the transformative role HBCUs play in enriching and improving the lives of young people.”
The campaign was developed in partnership with McDonald’s through its Black & Positively Golden initiative, Ulta Beauty and other partners.
Beginning in November, iHeartMedia and Ulta Beauty will launch a social sharing challenge that will encourage HBCU students to share their at-home homecoming style for a chance to win a virtual meet and greet with an artist. Additionally, on Nov. 12, the two companies will host a panel with a performing artist, spotlighting conversations between Black female celebrities and entrepreneurs, designed to pave the way for the next generation of Black women leaders.
The celebration will culminate with a special event across all iHeartMedia hip-hop and R&B stations, including a pre-show and performance sponsored by McDonald’s through its Black and Positively Golden initiative.