The 2025 HBCU Honors will celebrate three outstanding figures in Black culture and excellence: David Banner, Pastor Shirley Caesar, and Janice Bryant Howroyd. The third annual event returns Thanksgiving weekend, airing Saturday, November 30 at 8 p.m. ET/PT on BET and BET Her.
David Banner to Receive the Cultural Impact Award
David Banner, the Grammy-nominated rapper, producer, and activist, will receive the Cultural Impact Award. A proud graduate of Southern University, Banner is recognized for his achievements as a musician, actor, entrepreneur, and humanitarian.
He is the founder and CEO of A Banner Vision, a full-service music and production agency. Banner has also been praised for his relief efforts during Hurricane Katrina, organizing support for affected communities across the Gulf Coast.
Pastor Shirley Caesar to Receive Lifetime Achievement Award
Known as the First Lady of Gospel, Pastor Shirley Caesar will be honored with the Lifetime Achievement Award. The Durham, North Carolina, native and Shaw University alumna has built a six-decade career filled with inspiration, faith, and success.
Caesar has released more than 40 albums, earned 11 Grammy Awards, and received the Grammy Lifetime Achievement Award. She continues to lead Mount Calvary Word of Faith Church in Durham, where she serves as senior pastor.
Janice Bryant Howroyd to Receive Visionary Founder Award
Janice Bryant Howroyd, founder and CEO of The ActOne Group, will receive the Visionary Founder Award. As the first Black woman to own and operate a billion-dollar business, Howroyd’s leadership has opened doors for countless professionals around the world…