Jordan Brand has announced a long-term partnership with a historically black college, Howard University. The partnership hopes to bring attention to the school’s athletic department and improve opportunities for students looking to enroll in varsity sports. Jordan Brand has plans to launch academic programs at the University in an effort to foster talent “off and on and the field.” This news comes after professional basketball player Michael Jordan pledged $100 million USD to the Black community in order to aid initiatives that spark change.
Jordan Brand President, Craig Williams said: “Howard University and Jordan Brand share a legacy of excellence and deep commitment to the Black Community. As a HBCU graduate, I understand the educational impact an institution like Howard University has. We are proud to partner with Howard University and see the growth in Black talent on the field and well beyond it.”
Image Credit: Jordan Brand, <a rel='nofollow' href='https://hypebae.com/2022/8/jordan-brand-hbcu-howard-university-20-year-partnership-announcement'>hypebae</a>, <a rel='nofollow' href='https://howard.edu/'>howard.edu</a>
Why This Trend Is Growing
- HBCU Partnerships
- There is an opportunity for brands to form long-term partnerships with Historically Black Colleges and Universities to improve opportunities and bring attention to athletic departments.
- Academic Programs
- Brands can launch academic programs at universities to foster talent and provide opportunities for students to excel both on and off the field.
- Community-focused Initiatives
- Brands can pledge significant amounts of funding to aid initiatives that spark change and have a positive impact on underrepresented communities.
Industries Being Reshaped
- Sports Apparel
- Sports apparel companies can partner with universities to produce custom apparel and gear for teams and fans, while also promoting diversity and inclusion.
- Higher Education
- There is an opportunity for universities to create innovative academic programs and initiatives that not only cater to student-athletes, but also promote diversity and inclusion both on and off campus.
- Corporate Philanthropy
- Companies can make significant donations to underrepresented communities and establish initiatives that promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in order to make a meaningful impact on society.
