The Atlanta University Center (AUC) is home to Spelman, Morehouse, Morris Brown & Clark Atlanta University. The month of October for students and alumni of these institutions is always jam-packed with events, with Spelhouse & CAU having their homecoming weeks back-to-back. Even though the schools are right across the gate from each other, the vibes are still there all month long and many end up attending both homecomings. This year, Spelhouse’s homecoming was before Clark’s, and as a CAU alum, it almost felt like the warm-up to my school’s festivities. Nevertheless, I still made memories at both events and had a blast for two weeks straight. 

Drip or Drown 

Drip or Drown 

There’s no debate that HBCUs really put it on when it comes to tailgate outfits. Spelman women rocked their school colors, and a few even wore Legacy History Pride’s latest rugby dress to pay homage to the school (founded by Howard alum Tahir Murray). At CAU, many wore fits that expressed their personality and weren’t afraid to wear designer clothes from head to toe. I loved seeing the fashion design majors at Clark create their own outfits and own it unapologetically. You can definitely tell which one is the fashion school out of the three, but all schools still showed up and showed out. 

There’s no debate that HBCUs really put it on when it comes to tailgate outfits. Spelman women rocked their school colors, and a few even wore Legacy History Pride’s latest rugby dress to pay homage to the school (founded by Howard alum Tahir Murray). At CAU, many wore fits that expressed their personality and weren’t afraid to wear designer clothes from head to toe. I loved seeing the fashion design majors at Clark create their own outfits and own it unapologetically. You can definitely tell which one is the fashion school out of the three, but all schools still showed up and showed out. 

The Link Ups

The Link Ups

You couldn’t help but notice the mini reunions happening for everyone throughout the tailgate. Whether it be old classmates, roommates, or that one crush you never forgot about, the energy was nostalgic and familiar. It was nice to also see D9 members not just secluded to their tent; many bounced around and showed love to friends and peers outside of their orgs. On the topic of Greek life, both young and seasoned members were out and about enjoying the vibe. The brothers of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. took over the Morehouse tennis courts and seemingly had their own tailgate. From a Redbull activation with free drinks, to endless chicken on the grill, to literally hopping on U-Hauls; they made their own fun, and it felt like a party within a party. At CAU, it’s safe to say that the Alphas had the most exciting tent, with many of them having personalized paraphernalia specific to their lines. 

You couldn’t help but notice the mini reunions happening for everyone throughout the tailgate. Whether it be old classmates, roommates, or that one crush you never forgot about, the energy was nostalgic and familiar. It was nice to also see D9 members not just secluded to their tent; many bounced around and showed love to friends and peers outside of their orgs. On the topic of Greek life, both young and seasoned members were out and about enjoying the vibe. The brothers of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity Inc. took over the Morehouse tennis courts and seemingly had their own tailgate. From a Redbull activation with free drinks, to endless chicken on the grill, to literally hopping on U-Hauls; they made their own fun, and it felt like a party within a party. At CAU, it’s safe to say that the Alphas had the most exciting tent, with many of them having personalized paraphernalia specific to their lines. 

It’s a Vibe 

It’s a Vibe 

Despite both schools charging for entrance to tailgate, both homecomings brought a huge crowd, and even the locals in the Atlanta area joined in on the fun. CAU’s red field was an eye-catcher and some may even say it’s a staple on campus now. Outside of the tailgate, the promenade was active with vendors and food trucks for those that wanted a break from the action. At Spelhouse, Tailgate Hill was flooded with young and older alumni bonding off of similar organizations, like the ladies of the Mahogony-N-Motion dance team. As the day carried on and tailgate came to a close, many didn’t want the fun to end and decided to post up in front of the school signs. No matter the homecoming you went to, the vibe was simply unmatched. Is it messy to say that the AUC may even be the real GHOE?

Despite both schools charging for entrance to tailgate, both homecomings brought a huge crowd, and even the locals in the Atlanta area joined in on the fun. CAU’s red field was an eye-catcher and some may even say it’s a staple on campus now. Outside of the tailgate, the promenade was active with vendors and food trucks for those that wanted a break from the action. At Spelhouse, Tailgate Hill was flooded with young and older alumni bonding off of similar organizations, like the ladies of the Mahogony-N-Motion dance team. As the day carried on and tailgate came to a close, many didn’t want the fun to end and decided to post up in front of the school signs. No matter the homecoming you went to, the vibe was simply unmatched. Is it messy to say that the AUC may even be the real GHOE?

This year’s homecoming festivities were a great time and to say I need a week-long nap would be an understatement. It’s always so good to see friends and old professors come together to celebrate their HBCU background and culture. While I always have a great time in Atlanta, I definitely want to experience other HBCU homecomings. Who knows; maybe I’ll end up at FAMU or Howard next year!

This year’s homecoming festivities were a great time and to say I need a week-long nap would be an understatement. It’s always so good to see friends and old professors come together to celebrate their HBCU background and culture. While I always have a great time in Atlanta, I definitely want to experience other HBCU homecomings. Who knows; maybe I’ll end up at FAMU or Howard next year!

This year, Clark Atlanta University did something a little different to their Homecoming and tailgate experience. Not only was the concert free for students this year, but the school also extended their tailgate on campus, making the space more enjoyable and bringing in exciting brand activations.

While everyone shows love and pride to their alma mater, I decided to catch up with current students and alumni to see if they know their facts and ask what has changed since attending CAU.

Consolidated
Fun fact: Clark Atlanta University wasn’t always one school. It used to be two separate institutions: Clark College and Atlanta University. Atlanta University, established in 1865, was the first institution to award graduate degrees to African Americans. Clark College was the nation’s first four-year liberal arts college to serve mostly African American students.

While both schools were established in the 1800s, it wasn’t until July 1, 1988, when the schools came together to form Clark Atlanta University. This year, CAU celebrated 35 years of being consolidated and serves over 4,000 with undergraduate, graduate, and doctorate programs.

Who Ran the Yard?
As a 2024 graduate, there was always a growing debate on which Greek organization ran the yard. In my opinion, it was always the Alphas and Deltas that did their big ones. From the parties, on-campus events, and community service initiatives, those two orgs set the standard at CAU.

While of course some opinions were biased, it was interesting to hear how it changed as time progressed.

Go-To Hang Out Spots
Being on campus during the end of COVID really forced you to make your own fun. We would always hang out in each other’s rooms and throw our own kickbacks. We would occasionally hit 809 Hollywood Rd or the small lounge across from JR Crickets, but we mainly made our own fun.

The older alumni had cool insight on how the hang-out spots have changed, even the city of Atlanta in general.

What Would You Change?
We all know that there is always room for improvement at our HBCUs. From housing, to more funding, to bigger classrooms, there is always something that can be implemented to enhance the education and experience for the students.

To no surprise, many people said that there’s a need for better housing. This year, CAU assigned more co-ed dorms on campus to make room for the growing female population on campus. Hopefully, with the continuous donations and funding, the school will be able to renovate the abandoned buildings on campus and make room for something better.

While the crowd had both old and new faces, the energy was unmatched and you can clearly tell that everyone had a great time. Homecoming in Atlanta hits differently, especially in the AUC. If you are a fan of Homecoming tours, you should definitely add a stop to the AUC on your list for next year.

For HBCU alum, going to Homecoming is a yearly event that both students and alumni look forward to. From the good food, fly fits, and catching up with old classmates; the atmosphere is both nostalgic and sentimental.

This year, Clark Atlanta University did something a little different to their Homecoming and tailgate experience. Not only was the concert free for students this year, but the school also extended their tailgate on campus, making the space more enjoyable and bringing in exciting brand activations.

While everyone shows love and pride to their alma mater, I decided to catch up with current students and alumni to see if they know their facts and ask what has changed since attending CAU.

Consolidated
Fun fact: Clark Atlanta University wasn’t always one school. It used to be two separate institutions: Clark College and Atlanta University. Atlanta University, established in 1865, was the first institution to award graduate degrees to African Americans. Clark College was the nation’s first four-year liberal arts college to serve mostly African American students.

While both schools were established in the 1800s, it wasn’t until July 1, 1988, when the schools came together to form Clark Atlanta University. This year, CAU celebrated 35 years of being consolidated and serves over 4,000 with undergraduate, graduate, and doctorate programs.

Who Ran the Yard?
As a 2024 graduate, there was always a growing debate on which Greek organization ran the yard. In my opinion, it was always the Alphas and Deltas that did their big ones. From the parties, on-campus events, and community service initiatives, those two orgs set the standard at CAU.

While of course some opinions were biased, it was interesting to hear how it changed as time progressed.

Go-To Hang Out Spots
Being on campus during the end of COVID really forced you to make your own fun. We would always hang out in each other’s rooms and throw our own kickbacks. We would occasionally hit 809 Hollywood Rd or the small lounge across from JR Crickets, but we mainly made our own fun.

The older alumni had cool insight on how the hang-out spots have changed, even the city of Atlanta in general.

What Would You Change?
We all know that there is always room for improvement at our HBCUs. From housing, to more funding, to bigger classrooms, there is always something that can be implemented to enhance the education and experience for the students.

To no surprise, many people said that there’s a need for better housing. This year, CAU assigned more co-ed dorms on campus to make room for the growing female population on campus. Hopefully, with the continuous donations and funding, the school will be able to renovate the abandoned buildings on campus and make room for something better.

While the crowd had both old and new faces, the energy was unmatched and you can clearly tell that everyone had a great time. Homecoming in Atlanta hits differently, especially in the AUC. If you are a fan of Homecoming tours, you should definitely add a stop to the AUC on your list for next year.

North Carolina A&T University

One of the most exciting events during Homecoming week for students is the concert! Each year, HBCUs bring the year’s hottest artists to the yard and aim to top the year before. With some of the lineups released for this year, it’s already building anticipation for the other schools who have no idea who they have coming yet.

North Carolina A&T University

North Carolina A&T University holds the title for the Greatest Homecoming on Earth (GHOE). There’s no doubt that their lineup this year reflects that. GloRilla, PARTYNEXTDOOR, Queen Naija, Fridayy, and Big Boogie will be the performers, and the school did a great job giving students both a Hip-Hop and R&B vibe. Their Gospel concert on the following day also includes heavy hitters like The Clark Sisters and Fred Hammond. Last year, NCAT had success with Latto and Bryson Tiller as headliners, and it’s safe to say this year will be just as memorable.

North Carolina A&T University holds the title for the Greatest Homecoming on Earth (GHOE). There’s no doubt that their lineup this year reflects that. GloRilla, PARTYNEXTDOOR, Queen Naija, Fridayy, and Big Boogie will be the performers, and the school did a great job giving students both a Hip-Hop and R&B vibe. Their Gospel concert on the following day also includes heavy hitters like The Clark Sisters and Fred Hammond. Last year, NCAT had success with Latto and Bryson Tiller as headliners, and it’s safe to say this year will be just as memorable.

Florida A&M University

Florida A&M University

One trend we’re seeing at HBCU concerts this year is PARTYNEXTDOOR as a headliner. He’s been having a solid run—especially with his recent album with Drake. It’s safe to say he’s one of the most sought-after performers this year, and Florida A&M did not disappoint. They also booked Latto, Boosie, G Herbo, and Florida native BossMan Dlow. The Rattlers have something for both the men and the ladies, and I’m sure their stadium will be jumping on the 16th.

One trend we’re seeing at HBCU concerts this year is PARTYNEXTDOOR as a headliner. He’s been having a solid run—especially with his recent album with Drake. It’s safe to say he’s one of the most sought-after performers this year, and Florida A&M did not disappoint. They also booked Latto, Boosie, G Herbo, and Florida native BossMan Dlow. The Rattlers have something for both the men and the ladies, and I’m sure their stadium will be jumping on the 16th.

Spelhouse (Spelman & Morehouse College)

Spelhouse (Spelman & Morehouse College)

The AUC never fails to bring out everyone in the industry. Back in 2022, 21 Savage brought out Drake before the duo went on their It’s All a Blur tour. That same year, guest host FlyGuy DC had his own special guest set with Lil Yachty, Rae Sremmurd, and others. Each year gets harder to top, and this year, Spelman and Morehouse did not come to play. With the concert being held in a new venue off-campus, headliners PARTYNEXTDOOR, G Herbo, and Bunna B might just bring the whole AUC out. You never know who you might see at a Spelhouse concert, and I’m sure the expectations are just as high this year.

The AUC never fails to bring out everyone in the industry. Back in 2022, 21 Savage brought out Drake before the duo went on their It’s All a Blur tour. That same year, guest host FlyGuy DC had his own special guest set with Lil Yachty, Rae Sremmurd, and others. Each year gets harder to top, and this year, Spelman and Morehouse did not come to play. With the concert being held in a new venue off-campus, headliners PARTYNEXTDOOR, G Herbo, and Bunna B might just bring the whole AUC out. You never know who you might see at a Spelhouse concert, and I’m sure the expectations are just as high this year.

Delaware State University

Delaware State University

G Herbo and newcomer Bunna B are also repeat performers at a few HBCUs this year. But Delaware State shocked students when they announced Mariah the Scientist as the star headliner for this year’s concert. The lover girl has had the girls in a chokehold this year with Burning Blue, and the school did a great job providing both lit and mellow vibes. DSU didn’t have a Homecoming concert last year, so I can only imagine the excitement some of the students may have.

G Herbo and newcomer Bunna B are also repeat performers at a few HBCUs this year. But Delaware State shocked students when they announced Mariah the Scientist as the star headliner for this year’s concert. The lover girl has had the girls in a chokehold this year with Burning Blue, and the school did a great job providing both lit and mellow vibes. DSU didn’t have a Homecoming concert last year, so I can only imagine the excitement some of the students may have.

Alabama State University

Alabama State University

Alabama State switched it up this year and gave students artists with a little more longevity in the game. Gucci Mane, Trina, and Hunxho will be taking over their football stadium and giving students both throwbacks and new hits. Last year, ASU brought out Sexyy Red and BossMan Dlow, so it’s cool to see them switch it up and give their students something different. The concert, held on the 1st, is sure to get the students excited for the rest of the week’s festivities

Alabama State switched it up this year and gave students artists with a little more longevity in the game. Gucci Mane, Trina, and Hunxho will be taking over their football stadium and giving students both throwbacks and new hits. Last year, ASU brought out Sexyy Red and BossMan Dlow, so it’s cool to see them switch it up and give their students something different. The concert, held on the 1st, is sure to get the students excited for the rest of the week’s festivities

As more HBCUs drop their lineups, the energy of Homecoming season will only continue to build. Which school do you think had the best lineup?

As more HBCUs drop their lineups, the energy of Homecoming season will only continue to build. Which school do you think had the best lineup?