The College Football Hall of Fame Announces Extension of Special Exhibit Honoring Historically Black Colleges and Universities

March, 20 2023

The College Football Hall of Fame Announces Extension of Special Exhibit Honoring

Historically Black Colleges and Universities

Nonprofit Celebrates Institutions, Players and Coaches That Broke Barriers and

Made a Historic Impact on the Game

Atlanta (October 12, 2020) – Due to an overwhelming response since the exhibit opened in July, the Chick-fil-A College Football Hall of Fame has announced that it will extend its special exhibit “College Football and HBCU’s - Their Story through the end of the year.  The display features a collection of stories, artifacts and other treasures from legendary HBCU players and coaches.

“The College Football Hall of Fame is honored to extend this significant exhibit which shares and supports the historical impact that HBCUs had on the great game of college football,” states Kimberly Beaudin, CEO of The College Football Hall of Fame. “As an educational destination that welcomes so many families and students, it’s critical to highlight the Black leaders of the game who created real change on the field and within their communities. We hope fans across the country will have the opportunity to experience this fascinating and important exhibit.”

New additions to the exhibit feature:

• Pro Bowl jersey, game worn helmet and several awards belonging to 2020 College Football Hall of Fame inductee, Steve McNair (Alcorn State)
• The game ball from when Jerry Rice (Mississippi Valley St.) became the NFL's all-time leader in yards from scrimmage, as well as his jersey commemorating when he reached the 1,500 career catch milestone
• The football carried by Walter Payton (Jackson State) when he set the NFL all-time rushing record, breaking the record previously held by Jim Brown
• Helmet worn by Willie Lanier (Morgan St.)
• Jersey worn by Gary Johnson (Grambling)
• College Sportsmanship Award presented to Donnie Shell (South Carolina St.)

“It’s important that all college football fans understand the rich history of HBCUs and their contributions to the game. Without HBCUs and African American players, college football would not be where it is today,” said Hall of Fame Coach, Joe Taylor. “This exhibit provides an opportunity to show gratitude and appreciation for the influence that HBCU’s have had on not only football programs across the country, but in life beyond the game.”

The Hall of Fame is proud to continue its celebration of HBCUs and in addition to the 34 HBCU players and coaches enshrined in the Hall, it currently employees 7 HBCU alumni and students.  Photos of the new exhibit can be found here.