#USA #Philadelphia #HBCUs #Pay It Forward #SNIPES

SNIPES Expands Campus Activations at HBCUs for Fall 2025

SNIPES US, a prominent sneaker and streetwear retailer, is announcing an exciting expansion of its commitment to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) through various engaging campus activations this Fall 2025. This initiative marks an important step in their ongoing Pay It Forward initiative, which focuses on educational empowerment and cultural celebration at HBCUs, and aims to positively impact collegiate communities.

Since the launch of the Pay It Forward initiative in 2022, SNIPES has dedicated resources to fund HBCU scholarships and campus events, reaching students from multiple universities, including Clark Atlanta University, Morgan State University, and Morehouse College. This year, Norfolk State University, Morehouse College, and Hampton University will also be included in an array of featured programming, reaffirming SNIPES' commitment to uplift these educational institutions and their respective student bodies.

The upcoming activations, organized in collaboration with the Culture Creators Agency, aim to enhance student experiences by blending brand engagement with grassroots opportunities that empower students. These initiatives will involve hands-on student experiences as Campus Changemakers, providing mentorship, micro-grant opportunities, and pathways to careers in the streetwear industry. Kelley Walton, SNIPES USA's CMO and an HBCU graduate, expressed the brand’s deep-rooted connection to the community: “Our work with HBCUs goes far beyond a campaign - it's a commitment. I’ve lived the HBCU experience and witnessed how the right support at the right time can change a student’s trajectory.”

The 2025 activations include:

• - Norfolk State University: On October 3, SNIPES participated in Nike’s Yardrunners initiative, which highlights the cultural legacy of HBCUs. Attendees were treated to a live performance by DMV native Nino Paid and an engaging fireside chat with notable NSU alumni, including retired NBA player Kyle O'Quinn.
• - Morehouse College: October 18’s Homecoming weekend featured a vibrant Yard Hub and a high-energy hip-hop concert, during which scholarships were awarded to more students, celebrating their academic achievements.
• - Hampton University: On October 25, SNIPES further expanded its East Coast presence by facilitating an event during Hampton's Homecoming weekend, connecting the brand with students and alumni while offering scholarship support.

In addition to these events, SNIPES has introduced a merchandise collection from Pro Standard, featuring apparel celebrating nine historically Black institutions. The collection includes stylish satin jackets, hoodies, and t-shirts, with a portion of the proceeds directed towards scholarship funds at involved institutions, thereby linking school pride to student opportunities.

SNIPES' Pay It Forward initiative operates on three foundational pillars:
1. Empowerment through Education: Providing scholarships and mentorship which connect practical learning with future career prospects.
2. Cultural Celebration and Connection: Honoring HBCU traditions through immersive events that promote creativity and local pride.
3. Sustainable Community Integration: Creating programs that consistently engage and invest in communities, ensuring that the brand stands by HBCUs year after year.

In conclusion, SNIPES is reaffirming its commitment to uplifting HBCUs and their students with impactful investments that go beyond marketing efforts. This dedication not only solidifies their brand but also illustrates a heartfelt engagement with communities that have made significant contributions to culture and society. As a retailer that emerged in 1998, SNIPES has evolved into a cultural movement that intertwines fashion, community, and support for the next generation.

With over 800 stores worldwide and a robust online presence, SNIPES aims to foster community development through creative partnerships and initiatives, demonstrating that they are committed to nurturing talent and empowering young leaders.