HBCU AWAREFEST Expands Into Power-Packed Week of Events Focused on Culture, Policy and Philanthropy Supporting Black Students

HBCU AWAREFEST 2026 is evolving into far more than a concert. What began as a major cultural and fundraising event aimed at confronting the student debt crisis impacting Black communities has now expanded into a full week of newly announced programming in Atlanta.

The initiative is led by the Student Freedom Initiative, founded and chaired by billionaire philanthropist and Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. brother Robert F. Smith, in partnership with Live Nation Urban. Together, they are building what organizers describe as a national movement designed to blend culture, conversation and capital in support of HBCU students.

Now, AWAREFEST Week will feature a series of high-impact events leading up to the main fundraising concert — bringing together students, families, policymakers, business leaders, philanthropists and creatives for dialogue, networking and direct action. From free public festivals and executive-level summits to comedy shows, philanthropic conversations and exclusive fundraising experiences, the week is designed to drive awareness while raising critical resources to support students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
Below are the newly announced events accompanying HBCU AWAREFEST 2026:

2026 HBCU IMPACT FEST presented by HBCU AWAREFEST
Saturday, March 21st • 10 AM – 5 PM
AUC Robert W. Woodruff Library & Promenade
Join students, families, educators, and community leaders for the 2026 HBCU Impact Fest, a free, all-day festival at the Robert W. Woodruff Library & Promenade designed to help the next generation navigate college, careers, and financial futures.
As part of HBCU AWAREFEST Week, a multi-day series leading up to the HBCU AWAREFEST fundraising concert, the Impact Fest offers real conversations, practical resources, and direct access to organizations and leaders working to expand opportunity for HBCU students. HBCU AWAREFEST is produced by the Student Freedom Initiative, founded and chaired by billionaire philanthropist Robert F. Smith.

WHAT TO EXPECT
– Panels on college access, affordability, and financial literacy
– Resources for students, parents, and families navigating higher education
– Outdoor HBCU Resource, Career and Small Business Fair
– Food Trucks Serving Free Food & Interactive Sponsor Activations
– Wellness Activations, Live DJs and Giveaways
All activities are free and open to the public with registration.
To attend, please visit: awarefest.org 
Follow @awarefestival on Instagram for updates and announcements.

Deon Cole & Guests. Hosted by Chris Spencer presented by HBCU AWAREFEST
Tuesday, March 24 at 8pm
Tabernacle 
HBCU AWAREFEST comedy show 
Ticket Link: https://www.ticketmaster.com/event/0E006459F411ED1B
Follow @awarefestival on Instagram for updates.

The State of HBCUs Executive Summit presented by HBCU AWAREFEST
Wednesday, March 25, 2026 • 1:00 PM – 2:30 PM
Ebenezer Baptist Church

Join HBCU AWAREFEST and the Student Freedom Initiative for a free, high-level public convening bringing together HBCU presidents, policymakers, philanthropic leaders, business executives, media, community stakeholders and the general public for an urgent and solutions-driven conversation about the future of Black higher education.

Held at Ebenezer Baptist Church during HBCU AWAREFEST Week, this summit centers the financial, policy, and structural challenges facing HBCUs today—and explores what it will take to move from institutional survival to long-term stability and growth.

Featured Conversation: From Student Debt to Institutional Survival: Reimagining the Future of Black Higher Education

Moderated by Roland Martin, news Commentator and Host of Roland Martin Unfiltered, this solutions-oriented discussion examines the growing burden of student loan debt on Black families, the fragile financial footing of many HBCUs, and how redesigned education financing, policy alignment, and coordinated investment can strengthen institutions and expand opportunity for future generations.
To register to attend, please visit: awarefest.org
Follow @awarefestival on Instagram for updates and announcements.

All In for HBCUs: A Casino Royale Fundraiserpresented by HBCU AWAREFEST
Hosted by Anthony Anderson and Rosci Diaz
Live Auction hosted by Magic Johnson
Special Live Performance by Wyclef Jean
Wednesday, March 25 • 6 PM – 10:00 PM
Hotel Phoenix

Set inside Atlanta’s stunning new Hotel Phoenix, All In for HBCUs is HBCU AWAREFEST’s signature Casino Royale fundraiser, bringing together leaders, creatives, philanthropists, and supporters for a glamorous night in support of Black higher education. Guests will enjoy elevated casino gaming, gourmet food and premium cocktails, live and silent auctions, celebrity moments, and world-class entertainment in a beautifully designed, Las Vegas inspired setting.

Attendance requires a charitable donation to the Student Freedom Initiative, supporting expanded access, affordability, and long-term opportunity for HBCU students.
– $750 individual donation
– $1,250 couples donation
Casino Royale Glamour attire encouraged. Capacity is limited.

To register to attend, please visit: awarefest.org
Follow @awarefestival on Instagram for updates and announcements.

Fireside Chat on Philanthropy with Robert F. Smith presented by HBCU AWAREFEST
Moderated by CNBC Reporter, Frank Holland
Thursday, March 26 • 3 PM – 5:45 PM
State Farm Arena – Suite Level Banquet Room
A rare opportunity for intimate access to billionaire investor and philanthropist Robert F. Smith alongside a panel of celebrity philanthropists whose impact is shaping the future of Black education and wealth.
Moderated by CNBC Reporter, Frank Holland, this exclusive fireside conversation offers attendees an inside look at the thinking, values, and strategies behind transformative giving, including Robert F. Smith’s groundbreaking work with the Student Freedom Initiative to eliminate HBCU student debt and expand economic opportunity.
A $1,000 donation is required to attend, supporting SFI’s mission to address the HBCU student loan crisis and the Black wealth gap. All attendees receive a 100 Level ticket to the HBCU HBCU AWAREFEST concert that evening.

Limited capacity. To register to attend, please visit: awarefest.org
Follow @awarefestival on Instagram for updates.

V-VIP Suite Experience with Robert F. Smith presented by HBCU AWAREFEST
Thursday, March 26 • 6 PM – 10 PM
State Farm Arena

An elite private suite experience offering premium concert viewing, luxury food and beverage service, and rare access to Robert F. Smith alongside celebrity philanthropists, C-suite executives, and cultural leaders.

Hosted inside Robert F. Smith’s private viewing suite, this V-VIP experience is designed for those who value discretion, influence, and proximity to power.

A $25,000 donation is required and includes admission to the Fireside Chat on Philanthropy with Robert F. Smith earlier that day. Donations support the Student Freedom Initiative’s mission to address the HBCU student loan crisis and the Black wealth gap.
Extremely limited availability.

To register your interest in attending, please visit: awarefest.org 
Follow @awarefestival on Instagram for updates and announcements.

As HBCU AWAREFEST 2026 approaches, organizers are making it clear that this is not just about a single night of entertainment it is about mobilizing a movement. With the Student Freedom Initiative and Live Nation Urban bringing together culture, capital and community, AWAREFEST Week represents a coordinated effort to confront the HBCU student loan crisis head-on. From free public programming to high-level philanthropic gatherings, the expanded slate of events is definitely set to create a huge impact.