EAST LANSING, MI – September 30, 2024 – The Michigan State University Black Alumni (MSUBA) is thrilled to announce its 44th Annual Homecoming Weekend Celebration, taking place from October 17 - 20, 2024, on the MSU campus and in the East Lansing area. The weekend will culminate with the prestigious Shirley M. Rodgers Distinguished Alumni and Scholarship Awards ceremony at the Kellogg Center on Sunday morning, October 20th at 10 am.

This year’s event will feature Sam Vincent, NBA legend, MSU alum, and the 2024 Homecoming Grand Marshal, as the guest speaker. Known for his global leadership and impactful contributions, Sam will deliver an inspiring address to attendees. The ceremony will be emceed by Darnell Blackburn, also an MSU alumnus, who is recognized for his expertise as a former police officer and Crime and Safety Expert on WDIV-Local 4 TV in Detroit.

The awards ceremony will honor exceptional individuals within the MSU community:

·         Clifton R. Wharton, Jr Award: Shondra L. Marshall PhD, inaugural Director of the Center for Racial and Social Justice at Michigan Public Health Institute (MPHI)

·         Rising Star Award: Endea Owens, a Detroit-raised Recording Artist, incredible Bassist, and Composer

·         Trailblazer Award: Dr. Walter S. Metcalfe, physician and business owner best known for his appearances on Bravo TV’s "Married to Medicine" series

·         Community/University Service Award: Kim Henderson, Departmental Manager for the Mapping & Media Services Section at the Michigan Department of Transportation (MDOT)

For more detailed information, please take a look at the attached biographies. 

Since its inception in 1980 as a reunion event at the MSU University Club, MSUBA has evolved into a significant tradition that celebrates the legacy, diversity, and accomplishments of our Spartan family.  Originally starting with an orange pumpkin passed around for contributions to a $1,000 scholarship fund, MSUBA now proudly supports future generations of Spartans through scholarships and community engagement.

“We invite everyone to join us in this celebration of excellence,” said a spokesperson for MSUBA. “Your participation helps us continue our mission of supporting students and honoring our remarkable alumni.”

Tickets are available for purchase HERE and individuals are encouraged to support fundraising efforts through donations to the scholarship fund or by becoming members of MSUBA. For more information about events and how to get involved, please visit our website at www.msuba.org or follow us on social media.

Note: All ticket purchases are final; there are no refunds.

Please see attached photos of our 2024 Distinguished Alumni Honorees.  Please credit  Photos courtesy of MSUBA.