The Circle City Classic, a renowned yearly showcase of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), just marked its 40th anniversary with a weekend lineup that included a parade, football game, and series of events celebrating Black culture and academic achievement.
According to WTHR, the event has been an evolving tradition since its onset in 1984 and has developed a reputation for bringing together alumni and promoting the energy of HBCUs in the Midwest; this year was no exception, with a special recognition toward the game's historic participants, including the legendary Jerry Rice, who played in the inaugural Classic for Mississippi Valley State.
Amp Harris, a promoter for the Indiana Black Expo (IBE), recalled the inception of the game as a significant moment, noting, "Reverend Charles Williams and the crew at Indiana Black Expo coming together to try to figure out, how do we infuse an HBCU game right in the heart of the Midwest?" a sentiment caught by WRTV. The Classic includes efforts to inform Midwest youth about opportunities at HBCUs and within the broader postsecondary landscape.
The milestone event included a Friday President’s Gala celebrating female HBCU presidents. IBE President and CEO Alice Watson commented, "Names like Jerry Rice, one of the first HBCU superstars, have come up. We’re celebrating a rich legacy, and we have plenty of programming to mark the occasion," as told to WISH-TV.
The Circle City Classic is one of the country's oldest HBCU football games and has inspired similar events nationwide. Over the decades, it has grown into a vibrant event that highlights both athletic achievements and the educational and cultural significance of HBCUs. The Indiana Black Expo continues to support this event, focusing on its growth in the future.
