Actor and proud Howard University graduate Lance Gross brought both star power and powerful words to Wilmington’s HBCU Week, where he talked with Saniya Gay of DelawareBlack.com.
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Gay, who also made history as the nation’s first Miss Juneteenth, asked Gross about the significance of the annual celebration. For the House of Payne star, the answer was simple but profound:
“It’s everything. It’s important for people like me who have a platform to always give back and provide the tools these kids need to succeed and be the best version of themselves. I’ve been supporting Ashley [Christopher] and HBCU Week for many years, and I’ll keep coming back.”
When asked why HBCUs remain so essential today, especially as more students choose them over predominantly white institutions, Gross didn’t hold back:
“It’s everything, especially in today’s climate when they’re trying to erase our history. Go get you a nice HBCU so you can get the real history. They’ll never dim our light.”
He also offered heartfelt advice that he would have told his younger self and other students just starting their college journeys:
“Take your time, young man. Enjoy every moment. As a freshman, you’re always rushing to the next thing. But once you graduate, the real world comes fast, bills and all. So live in the moment.”
The exchange underscored what makes HBCU Week in Wilmington such a powerful annual tradition: a mix of celebration, culture, and wisdom passed from leaders like Gross to the next generation.
 and House of Payne star during Wilmington’s HBCU Week, where he opened up about giving back and staying rooted in Black culture.){kind=link}