HBCU AWAREFEST

On March 26, 2026, in Atlanta, GA, Student Freedom Initiative hosted its first benefit concert to confront the student loan debt crisis and illuminate its profound impact on the futures of students attending HBCUs.

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A MOVEMENT BUILT FOR STUDENTS BY THEIR COMMUNITY.

In partnership with Live Nation Urban, the City of Atlanta, and Mayor Andre Dickens, we educated the nation about the contribution of HBCUs to local and national economies while galvanizing collective action to provide sustainable pathways to higher education and long-term wealth creation for students attending HBCUs.

Every dollar raised went towards expanding affordable pathways to higher education through our Student Freedom Loan (SFL). The SFL helps students graduate with minimal debt, and all repayments go towards the education of future generations of students.

The festival included a stacked slate of performances from the likes of Jill Scott, John Legend, Common, Jeezy, Earth, Wind, & Fire, GloRilla, Metro Boomin, Kirk Franklin, and more.

Attendees heard from SFI Founder Robert F. Smith, Chris Paul, Angel Reese, Ryan Clark, and several others who are dedicated to freeing students from the burden of student loan debt.

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For Students

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For Parents and Guardians

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“We are building a national movement and broad-based coalition to tackle one of the defining challenges the next generation faces. Together, we will end the student loan debt crisis for our nation’s HBCU students.”

-SFI President and CEO, Keith Shoates

JOIN THE MOVEMENT

HBCU AwareFest isn’t just an event—it’s a national movement to connect, learn, and take action for future generations.

SUPPORT AND DONATE

Every dollar raised will go towards expanding affordable pathways to higher education through our Student Freedom Loan. This loan option helps students graduate without the crushing burden of student loan debt, and repayments go towards the education of future generations.

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