LegacyHistoryPride™, an apparel company focused on HBCUs, has launched a new clothing collaboration with NASCAR, which recognizes the strong connections between motorsports and historically Black colleges and universities.
The company issued the following statement.
“This partnership showcases our mutual values of excellence, ambition, and community, providing both fans and students with the opportunity to immerse themselves in the dynamic world of racing.
Our goal through this collaboration is to enhance the influence of NASCAR’s dedication to HBCUs, highlighted by initiatives such as the NASCAR Campus Lab Program, initiated in 2023 by Caryn Grant, a Howard University alumna who works with NASCAR.
This innovative program offers HBCU students practical experience in the sports industry, featuring real-world projects, mentorship from motorsport executives, and career readiness activities including mock interviews and resume workshops. Participants who successfully complete the program may also qualify for scholarships of up to $5,000, as demonstrated by the inaugural cohort from Bethune-Cookman University, situated a short distance from NASCAR’s headquarters in Daytona Beach.
This partnership also honors the accomplishments of pioneering HBCU students and alumni within NASCAR, such as Rajah Caruth, a senior at Winston-Salem State University who clinched his first NASCAR Craftsman Truck Series victory in 2024, and John Cohen, a Grambling State University graduate and the owner of the New York Racing Team. Trailblazers like Brehanna Daniels, a Norfolk State University graduate and the first Black woman to compete as a pit crew member, along with Brandon Thompson, a Clark Atlanta University alumnus and NASCAR’s Vice President of Diversity & Inclusion, exemplify the increasing diversity within motorsports.
By working together, NASCAR and LegacyHistoryPride™ are crafting distinctive opportunities for HBCU students and enthusiasts to engage with the thrill of racing while celebrating the contributions of Black professionals in the field. This partnership captures the essence of innovation and advancement, with additional exciting projects on the horizon.”
The HBCU Racing Pit Crew jerseys are available for $90 each on the LegacyHistoryPride website.
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LegacyHistoryPride™ Partners with NASCAR to Celebrate HBCU Excellence and Diversity in Motorsports
Introduction to LegacyHistoryPride™
LegacyHistoryPride™ is an innovative apparel company dedicated to honoring cultural heritage and promoting authenticity through their designs. Focused on celebrating the richness of African American history and culture, the brand aims to make a significant impact not only in fashion but also in various industries, including motorsports.
The Partnership with NASCAR
In an exciting development for both the fashion and motorsports communities, LegacyHistoryPride™ has partnered with NASCAR to highlight the importance of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in promoting diversity and excellence within the sport. This partnership marks a pivotal moment in both brands’ missions to foster inclusivity and representation.
Objectives of the Partnership
- To celebrate HBCU excellence and achievements in motorsports.
- To promote diversity within NASCAR and the broader automotive industry.
- To create educational opportunities and scholarships for students at HBCUs.
Celebrating HBCU Excellence in Motorsports
The collaboration between LegacyHistoryPride™ and NASCAR is set to shine a spotlight on the accomplishments of HBCU alumni in the racing world. By showcasing the contributions of these institutions and their graduates, the initiative aims to inspire the next generation of diverse talent in motorsports.
Historical Background of HBCUs in Motorsports
Historically, HBCUs have played a crucial role in developing talent within various fields, including engineering, business, and the arts. However, their presence in motorsports has often been overlooked. This partnership intends to rectify that by highlighting stories of successful HBCU alumni who have made their mark in NASCAR and beyond.
Key Initiatives and Programs
Through the partnership, several key initiatives and programs will be introduced:
- Scholarship Programs: Funding opportunities for students pursuing careers in automotive engineering, design, and management.
- Mentorship Opportunities: Connecting HBCU students with industry professionals for guidance and career development.
- Diversity Workshops: Educational workshops aimed at promoting awareness and understanding of diversity in motorsports.
Benefits of the Partnership
Both LegacyHistoryPride™ and NASCAR stand to gain significantly from this collaboration:
- Increased Visibility: Highlighting the contributions of HBCUs will draw attention to the importance of diverse representation in the sport.
- Community Engagement: Engaging local communities through events and outreach programs will strengthen ties between NASCAR and HBCUs.
- Brand Loyalty: By supporting educational initiatives, both brands can foster loyalty among consumers who value inclusivity and diversity.
Case Studies: HBCU Alumni in Motorsports
Several notable figures from HBCUs have made significant strides in the motorsports industry:
| Name | HBCU | Contribution |
|---|---|---|
| Wendell Scott | Virginia State University | First African American to win a NASCAR race. |
| Michael Jordan | North Carolina Central University | Owner of 23XI Racing, promoting diversity in NASCAR. |
| Darrell Wallace Jr. | Alabama State University | First African American driver in the NASCAR Cup Series since 1971. |
Practical Tips for Engaging with the Initiative
Fans and supporters of both LegacyHistoryPride™ and NASCAR can actively participate in this initiative:
- Attend Events: Participate in NASCAR events that promote HBCU involvement.
- Support Merchandise: Purchase LegacyHistoryPride™ apparel to show support for the cause.
- Spread Awareness: Share information about the partnership on social media to increase visibility.
- Engage with HBCUs: Volunteer or donate to programs at local HBCUs that promote diversity in STEM fields.
First-Hand Experience: Voices from the Community
Community engagement is vital to the success of this partnership. Here are some insights from students and alumni involved in the initiative:
“This partnership opens doors for HBCU students like me to pursue careers in fields we’ve always dreamed about. It’s inspiring to see our culture represented in motorsports!” – Jada Smith, Engineering Student at Prairie View A&M University
“As a NASCAR fan and a graduate of an HBCU, I’m excited to see how this collaboration will pave the way for more diverse voices in the industry.” - Marcus Johnson, HBCU Alumni and NASCAR Enthusiast
Conclusion: The Future of Diversity in Motorsports
The partnership between LegacyHistoryPride™ and NASCAR represents a significant step toward fostering inclusivity and diversity in the motorsports industry. By celebrating HBCU excellence, this initiative not only honors the past but also builds a brighter future for aspiring talent from underrepresented communities.
