Amidst the news confirming Tennessee State University’s decision to withdraw from the Southern Heritage Classic by Interim President Dwayne Tucker due to mounting financial challenges, we (HCF) stand with the TSU community. The fight to save TSU remains steadfast as we continue to stand up for TSU.

The Southern Heritage Classic cultural celebration has been a part of HCF’s Annual HBCU Football and Recruitment Tour program since 2018. TSU has been a part of the classic since its inception in 1990. The event has had a profound impact on the Memphis community and has brought significant attention on HBCUs.

“I am deeply saddened to learn of Tennessee State University’s decision to withdraw from the Southern Heritage Classic, a tradition that has been an integral part of the HBCU family affair since 1990 and has had a profound impact on the Memphis community. Despite this setback, the Southern Heritage Classic will continue to be one of the most memorable classics in history that shall always be attended annually. HCF stands in full support of SHC Founder Fred Jones Jr. and the SHC team in ensuring that the cultural celebration featuring HBCUs remains alive and well.”

– Demetrius Johnson Jr., founder, President & CEO, HCF

In 2023, SHC founder Fred Jones Jr. made history as the first HBCU sports-affiliated individual to be named to HCF’s prestigious Ten Most Dominant HBCU Leaders award and class. HCF honored Jones for his exceptional contributions to supporting HBCUs, athletics, and fostering exposure for the two participating institutions.

About the HBCU Campaign Fund
The HBCU Campaign Fund (HCF) was founded in 2012 and is a non-profit educational organization that remains a strong advocate for students and higher education. The mission of HCF is to support the significance and raise funds for scholarships, programs, and for private and public HBCUs and MSIs. For more information, visit www.hbcucampaignfund.org.

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