The Hollywood film industry owes a great debt to Historically Black Colleges and Universities, commonly referred to by the acronym HBCU. While it has long been known for turning out leaders in the fields of law, medicine, and politics, its influence extends to the film and television world as well, to a degree that goes far beyond just the familiar scenarios of football games, marching bands, and homecomings. Below are ten individuals with direct ties to the entertainment world and the HBCU world.
10. Mia Neal (Jackson State University): From Mississippi to Oscar Night
Mia Neal’s success in the film industry as a hair and makeup expert is the quintessential example of the unexpected doors of opportunity that are opened through HBCUs. Though working at MAC Cosmetics in the state of Mississippi, the big break for Mia came when she met one of her colleagues, who was trained under the coveted makeup and wig course at the renowned Juilliard School. Presently, Mia is an Emmy and Oscar-winning hairstylist, known for her remarkable performance in Ma Rainey’s Black Bottom and Annie Live!
9. Wanda Sykes (Hampton University): Proving the Critics Wrong
Wanda Sykes was met with questions about the relevance of her HBCU education early in her career. She received her degree from Hampton University and was told it might put her at a disadvantage relative to other students from “more traditional” schools.” History reveals that Sykes is not an exception and that HBCUs produce individuals like her, individuals who have the skills and the determination necessary to succeed even in highly competitive industries such as the entertainment industry.
8. Common (Florida A&M University): Culture, Community, and Creativity
For Common, attending an HBCU meant more than simply an education; it meant a sense of belonging. Shows like “A Different World,” which showcased life at an HBCU, inspired him to attend Florida A&M University because it gave him an opportunity to nurture his creativity and his identity. And it wasn’t long before the resulting artist, who won both Oscars and Emmys, gave thanks for having been raised at an HBCU because, in essence, HBCUs build careers but also make culture.
7. Danielle Deadwyler (Spelman College): Channeling Campus Life On Screen
Danielle Deadwyler (Till, The Harder They Fall) often points to her Spelman experience as a foundation for her approach to acting. Films like School Daze capture the spirit, humor, and curiosity of HBCU life elements she brings into her performances. For Deadwyler, the lessons learned at Spelman translate directly into rich, authentic storytelling on screen.
6. Samuel L. Jackson (Morehouse College): A Launchpad, Not Just a Degree
Samuel L. Jackson’s years at Morehouse College went far beyond the classroom. While studying, he immersed himself in Atlanta’s theater scene, landed early film roles, and learned the business side of acting through mentors at nearby Spelman College. Jackson famously jokes that Morehouse is practically “Spike Lee University,” a nod to the powerful alumni connections that have shaped his legendary career.
5. Debbie Allen (Howard University): Grounded in Culture and Confidence
Debbie Allen, a six-time Emmy Award winner, describes her time at Howard University as transformative. Surrounded by influential Black scholars like Dr. Frank M. Snowden and Professor Eleanor Traylor, she was deeply immersed in cultural pride and artistic discipline. That grounding has influenced not only her performances but also how she mentors, hires, and tells stories in Hollywood.
4. Latanya Richardson Jackson (Spelman College): Raised to Take the Lead
Latanya Jackson often talks about Spelman as a “nurturing well” that provided her with the foundational knowledge to become a success in acting, producing, as well as a directing. The qualities that were instilled in her that would prepare her for occupying space in a sector that cares about presence are leadership, vision, and confidence, which she developed at Spelman.
3. Ruth E. Carter (Hampton University): Creativity Without Constraints
Oscar-winning costume designer Ruth E. Carter (Black Panther) credits Hampton University for encouraging her creative freedom. As a student, she was pushed to experiment, take risks, and direct play experiences that still influence her work today. Whether collaborating with Ryan Coogler or Spike Lee, Carter carries the fearless creativity she developed at Hampton onto every set.
2. Charles King (Howard University): The Power of Connection
Charles King, the founder and CEO of the production company Macro and the producer of Sorry to Bother You, often speaks to the important role that the history and communal aspect of the university have played in his successful career. These connections that he was able to create at the university, stemming from a rich history of excellence and interdependence, have allowed him to build a career that not only succeeds but also supports other African American individuals.
1. The HBCU Pipeline: Community, Mentorship, and Momentum
What truly sets HBCUs apart, though, is the ability to create lifelong networks: from initiatives such as HBCU in L.A., to alumni-led mentorship programs, to the connections forged during homecomings, schools make sure talent isn’t just developed, it’s sustained. And it’s a fact that industry leaders like Aisha Summers Burke from BET Studios and Arleta Fowler from CAA proselytize that the real strength of HBCUs lies in giving back. Alumni don’t just climb the ladder; they reach back and bring others with them.
The next time a box-office movie holds your attention, a TV series hijacks your timeline, or an acceptance speech sends you to tears, remember that an HBCU graduate might have played a role. A new wave of Hollywood’s game-changers is already rising from the likes of Howard, Morehouse, Spelman, Hampton, and FAMU, and trust the marching band is just the opening act.