Students Bring Bowie State Talent to 3rd Annual HBCU Honors on BET

The 3rd Annual HBCU Honors brought Bowie State University talent to a national audience as the celebration of Black excellence aired Nov. 30 on BET and BET+. The production showcased the university’s creative strength and its commitment to providing hands-on experiences that prepare students for careers in media and entertainment. 

Participants from the Visual Communication & Digital Media Arts program, as well as Theatre Arts and Fashion Design supported key areas of the broadcast. Seniors Alexis Kennedy, Ashley Felton and Whitney Watson were among the FPAC students who assisted crews, contributed to visual storytelling and gained insight into the coordination required to bring a televised event to life. The opportunity was coordinated by Professor Maggy François, adjunct professor of Fashion Design with support from Professor Tewodross Williams, chair of the Department of Fine & Performing Arts. Together they ensured students had a meaningful place to apply their skills in a professional setting. 

“Opportunities like this empower our students to believe in their own greatness,” Professor François said. 

Junior criminal justice major Noah Harris, president of the Eta Chapter of the Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. appeared on stage during the taping as a guest of North Atlantic Regional Director Elicia Pegues Spearman, Esq. of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. The pair represented the sorority as members of the Divine Nine shared the spotlight on stage representing the legacy, excellence, and impact of the National Pan-Hellanic Council and its HBCU graduates.

“Being in that room reminded me that we deserve to celebrate ourselves and the work we do,” Harris said. 

Alumni were also part of the program. Tony Award-winning Myles Frost performed during a tribute to honoree Rev. Shirley Caesar and several graduates supported production teams throughout the show. BSUTV captured student reactions and behind-the-scenes moments that showcased the pride and creativity Bowie State students brought to the event. 

For those involved, the experience offered more than production credit. It provided a meaningful way to help tell the story of HBCUs, celebrate Black excellence and contribute to a program that reflects the culture and legacy they carry forward every day.