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As the CEO and President of the HBCU Labor Day Classic, Alex Davis is a man on a mission. Balancing family life, career, and a deep-rooted passion for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Davis is driving the future of HBCU culture forward. But his journey didn’t begin in an Executive C-Suite—it started in the marching band at Johnson C. Smith University.

Davis’ relationship with HBCUs runs deep. As a former member of the marching band at Johnson C. Smith University, he experienced firsthand the vibrancy and unique culture that HBCUs offer. “The HBCU experience is something you can’t put into words,” he says with a smile. “There’s a different kind of energy, a different kind of pride. It’s something you feel the moment you step on campus—the music, the camaraderie, the history. It’s all so powerful.”

This profound connection to his alma mater inspired Davis to take action. He saw a gap in financial support for HBCU marching bands, which often struggle to secure the funding they need to thrive. Recognizing the life-changing skills that marching bands impart—teamwork, responsibility, respect, and accountability—he knew he had to do something. So, he co-founded the HBCU Legacy Organization, a nonprofit dedicated to enhancing exposure for HBCUs and raising scholarship funds for their marching bands.

“We want to motivate more students to join these bands,” he explains. “Not just because it’s fun, but because it can be a pathway to a free college education. But for that to happen, these programs need financial support, and that’s where we come in.”

The HBCU Labor Day Classic is more than just a battle of the bands; it’s a celebration of HBCU culture. “It’s like one big homecoming,” Davis says, his voice lighting up with excitement. “Even if you didn’t attend an HBCU, you get to experience that energy, that pride. We bring it all together in one place, and it’s electric.”

This year’s event promises to be bigger and better than ever. Kicking off on Friday, August 30, with the HBCU Diversity, Equity, and Inclusion Career Fair at Johnson C. Smith University, the weekend will offer students the chance to engage directly with recruiters from top companies. “These students are incredible,” Davis says. “And this career fair is a chance for them to showcase their talents and secure internships or jobs. It’s a win-win for everyone involved.”

The festivities continue with a mix-and-mingle event at Top Golf, where alumni and newcomers alike can connect, reminisce, and gear up for the weekend ahead. “It’s like a pre-game for the main event,” Davis says.

Saturday’s lineup includes the Big HBCU Cookout, a nod to the homecoming tradition of reconnecting with old friends over good food and even better music. That evening, the HBCU President’s Reception will bring together city officials, college presidents, and sponsors to celebrate the achievements of the HBCU community.

But the real highlight comes on Sunday with the HBCU Labor Day Classic Fan Fest and Food Truck Festival, followed by the Battle of the Bands. “This year, we have eight colleges coming to town,” hereveals. “Clark Atlanta, Talladega College, Bethune-Cookman, Mississippi Valley, Winston-Salem State, Fayetteville State, Elizabeth City State, and North Carolina A&T. The lineup is incredible.”

As Davis speaks about the stadium, you can hear the pride in his voice. “It feels like this stadium was made for bands. The acoustics, the setup—there isn’t a bad seat in the house. It’s going to be a show like no other.”

For Alex Davis, the HBCU Labor Day Classic is more than an event; it’s a movement. It’s about giving back to the institutions that shaped him and ensuring that future generations of students have the same opportunities to grow, learn, and excel.

As the weekend approaches, Davis manages many moving parts—balancing family, work, and this passion filled enterprise. It’s clear that for Davis, this is more than just a job; it’s a labor of love. And as he continues to drive the HBCU culture forward, there’s no doubt that the future is bright.

 

Photo Credit: Courtesy of Level 21 Media