Colleges and universities across the country are filled with tenured professors who prepare students for life after graduation. These institutions also bring in celebrities and dignitaries as guest lecturers who can bring unique insights and real-world experiences to the classroom. At HBCUs, in particular, celebrities stand out as ideal candidates for these roles.
Here are some of the stars who can make it as professors at HBCUs and the subjects they excel at teaching.
Kevin Hart – Comedy and Entrepreneurship
Kevin Hart's journey from stand-up comedian to global superstar is truly remarkable. His acumen in navigating the entertainment industry combined with his entrepreneurial ventures, including HartBeat Productions and Laugh Out Loud Network, make him the ideal teacher of comedy and entrepreneurship. Hart's students will benefit from his wisdom on branding, resilience, and the business side of entertainment.
Issa Rae – Filmmaking and Production
Issa Rae's journey from the web series “Awkward Black Girl” to the hit TV show “Insecure” is inspiring. Her practical knowledge of how to break into the industry and real-world production experience make her the perfect teacher for filmmaking and production. Students will learn content creation, production, and marketing skills, with real-world applications and tips for breaking into Hollywood.
Terrance J – Mass Communications
North Carolina A&T graduate Terrance J has had great success since “106 & Park.” His experience as a host, entrepreneur and actor makes him the perfect fit to teach Mass Communications. His understanding of the rapidly changing media environment and first-hand experience with the challenges facing today's students will provide valuable lessons for aspiring media professionals.
Oprah Winfrey – Business and Mass Communications
Oprah Winfrey, an HBCU graduate from Tennessee State University, has built a billion-dollar media empire. Her business acumen and ability to create a self-made success story make her an excellent professor for both business and mass communication students. She can teach students about media management, entrepreneurship, and effective communication, and share her wisdom on navigating the business world.
Rich Paul – Business Management and Sports Agency
Rich Paul has an inspiring story of how he used his friendship with LeBron James to become one of the top sports agents. While he is not an HBCU alumnus, he does have some connection to the HBCU experience as his daughter recently graduated from Clark Atlanta University. Paul's expertise in business management and sports agents will be invaluable in his workshops for HBCU athletes, especially as they navigate the junior environment and grow their brand.
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Barack Obama – US Government and Speeches
As the first black president of the United States, Barack Obama has a wealth of knowledge from his years of political experience. He can teach courses on American government and give students a thorough understanding of various levels of civics and government operations. In addition, Obama's renowned speaking skills make him an excellent candidate to coach students in public speaking and guide them in creating and delivering persuasive speeches effectively.
Jennifer Hudson – Vocal Performance and Theatre Arts
EGOT performer Jennifer Hudson has found success at all levels of entertainment. From “American Idol” to syndicated talk shows, she is an accomplished teacher of vocal performance and theater arts. Students benefit from her extensive industry knowledge, gaining insight into how to succeed in the entertainment world while honing their singing and performance skills.
Imagine the impact these luminaries could have if they shared their expertise and experiences with HBCU students. Their blend of practical knowledge, industry insights, and inspiring journeys would undoubtedly propel students towards successful careers. And students of any institution who secure their services as guest lecturers or professors would be grateful as they would provide them with moments they will never forget.
