Last month, the Arkansas Black Hall of Fame revealed the inductees for its 2025 class and shared details for the 31st annual induction ceremony, set to take place on Saturday, October 11, at the Robinson Center in downtown Little Rock.

The seven-member class includes Dr. Charlie Nelms, a longtime educator and former chancellor of North Carolina Central University, as well as an alumnus of the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff. Dr. Nelms has also served as chancellor of Indiana University East and the University of Michigan-Flint.

One of eleven children raised on a farm in the Arkansas Delta, Dr. Nelms is widely recognized as a passionate advocate for racial justice and a nationally respected leader in higher education. In addition, he served as Vice President of Institution Development and Student Affairs at Indiana University and in retirement, he serves as President In-Residence with the United Negro College Fund and a Senior Consultant with the Association of Governing Boards in Washington, D.C.

This recognition comes at the time that the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff will celebrate homecoming, which includes its annual homecoming game on Saturday at 2 p.m. at Simmons Bank Field.

Demetrius Johnson, Jr., Founder, President & CEO of HCF—and a fellow University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff alumnus—joins in celebrating Dr. Nelms’ induction.

“Saturday, October 11, 2025, will be a great day to be a Golden Lion as we come together to celebrate homecoming, but also to honor one of our most distinguished alumni, Dr. Charlie Nelms, on his induction into the 2025 Class of the Arkansas Black Hall of Fame,” said Johnson. “We recognize Dr. Nelms for his extraordinary leadership, unwavering commitment, and lasting contributions to higher education. His wisdom, service, and impact make him a true treasure to our community. we invite the entire HBCU Nation to join us in celebrating Dr. Nelms and applauding this well-deserved honor.”

Tickets for this year’s ceremony are still available and can be purchased at Ticketmaster.com. For more information about the Arkansas Black Hall of Fame, visit here.

###