09/01/2026
Greetings Community & Supporters,
We are still inspired by the powerful conversations, energy, and fellowship from HBCU Legacy Week on the Vineyard 2026!
A heartfelt thank you to everyone who joined us in person at the Oak Bluffs Public Library and tuned in from afar. The 2nd Annual State of the HBCUnion Address was a resounding success, brought to life through the visionary leadership, generous support, and unwavering dedication of our esteemed leaders, sponsors, and community partners.
A Convocation of Visionary Leaders & Speakers
This year’s address brought together an exceptional lineup of higher education leaders who provided deep insights into the political, economic, and cultural landscape of Black higher education.
Our Panelists:
Bonita Brown, Chancellor, Winston-Salem State University
Dr. S. Keith Hargrove, Sr., Chancellor, Elizabeth City State University
Dr. Valerie Kinloch, President, Johnson C. Smith University
Dr. Jonathan K. Jefferson, President, Roxbury Community College
Dr. Roslyn Artis, President, Benedict College
Dr. Makola M. Abdullah, President, Virginia State University
Moderator:
Susan Taylor Batten, President & CEO of www.ABFE.org (Fisk & Howard Alumna), who brilliantly guided and elevated the entire session.
Opening Remarks & Presidential Presentation:
Ms. Kim Godwin https://share.google/1jrw7aSkexzZ7rPwg for delivering inspiring opening remarks and guiding our Presidential Presentation featuringSPGBK (Springbreak Watches).
Special thanks to SPGBK Founder Kwame Molden (NC A&T '09) and Team Lead T'yanna Rouse (NC A&T '19) for facilitating the presentation gifts.
Honoring Extraordinary Service
We were proud to present the inaugural State of the HBCUnion Address Award to The Honorable Ludwig Gaines (Howard University Alumnus).
A steadfast supporter of HBCU Legacy Week on the Vineyard from Day One, starting back when it was just an idea and continuing from my time as Chair of Bison on the Vineyard (2013–2015).
Ludwig remains a true advocate and steward for HBCUs.
Our Sponsors, Hosts & Community Partners
This impactful gathering was made possible through the dedicated administrative, marketing, catering, and operational support of
![I got the Blues 4 u. :)Kahina curating dope spaces. Celebrating the new delicious liquor [leee-core] Sable.By...drumroll...](https://img3.gluseum.com/648/196/1456657706481960.jpg)
