The Atlanta Braves Host HBCU Night at Truist

"We need to keep that momentum going and pumping blood into these schools." 

The Atlanta Braves held their seventh annual HBCU Night, showcasing their profound impact on the community. Graduates and current students from various HBCUs across the country were in attendance. The familial atmosphere and fellowship among generations of HBCU brilliance embody what makes them unique. 

The evening began with a performance from the Mighty Marching Hornets from Alabama State University. The band captivated a large audience by performing hit songs “ Not Like Us" and "We Don't Trust You". The university’s dance team, The Stingettes, added to the spectacle with their energetic dance moves, setting the tone for a night of culture and celebration.

Following the band’s performance, the Pregame Party at the Coca-Cola Roxy highlighted how HBCU culture is shared, despite differences in demographics and campus life. Unity was in full force, from the drumline performance to the combined swag surf dance. 

During the Pregame Party, Clark Atlanta University alumna and Chief Culture Officer of The Atlanta Braves, Dr. DeRetta Rhodes, spoke about the importance of hosting an event like HBCU night. 

"This special night brings HBCU pride to The Battery Atlanta and Truist Park, allowing us to highlight our support of HBCUs across Braves Country,” said Dr. Rhodes.  

Dr. Rhodes relayed that the Atlanta Braves also plan to continue their support of HBCUs by carrying the Homers for Hank program along.  

“Together with Truist, we’re proud to continue the Homers for Hank program which is a commitment to enhancing the athletic experiences of HBCU baseball and softball programs.”  

The celebration did not end at the commencement of the game but continued. Actress and Spelman College graduate Keshia Knight Pulliam had the honor of throwing the ceremonial first pitch. The event also included a special acknowledgment of the Atlanta University Center Presidents, underscoring the importance of these institutions in the community.

HBCU graduates in attendance reflected on the value of the Atlanta Braves' HBCU Night.  

Jessica Hallman, a Fort Valley State University alumna, expressed concern that HBCUs are undervalued.  "They like to paint the narrative that we're not important. You know, like we're no longer needed and we still are. We still are very important.” 

Adrienne Reynolds, a Talladega College alumna, emphasized the importance of ongoing support for HBCUs. "We need to keep that momentum going and pumping blood into these schools." 

Sandra Albritton Scroggins, also a Talladega College graduate, recognizes the progress of HBCU recognition from her time there to now. 

“It's just important because people have forgotten the foundation of HBCUs when we were there back in the early 80s, we just went to college. It wasn't HBCU anything.” 

The Atlanta Braves’ HBCU Night at Truist Park showcased the unique way HBCUs create a sense of home and belonging anywhere. The celebration beautifully showcased the deep, undeniable culture that exists.