Grammy-winning artist Beyoncé Knowles-Carter has reinforced her commitment to historically Black colleges and universities through a substantial donation to Texas Southern University's acclaimed marching band program.
The BeyGOOD Foundation recently announced a $100,000 grant to support the Ocean of Soul Marching Band, furthering the Houston native's dedication to empowering HBCU students and preserving the rich musical traditions these institutions represent.
The grant will be strategically allocated across multiple areas critical to the band's success and sustainability. Funds will support student scholarships, enhance recruitment and retention efforts, and provide technological upgrades and infrastructure improvements that will benefit current and future band members.
Texas Southern University President J.W. Crawford III expressed gratitude for the foundation's investment in student success.
"We are deeply appreciative of the BeyGOOD Foundation for this significant demonstration of its commitment to empowering our student musicians and elevating their form of artistic expression," Crawford said,
The donation builds upon an existing relationship between the global superstar and the university. During her highly anticipated Christmas Day NFL halftime performance in Houston, Beyoncé showcased the Ocean of Soul by featuring over 200 band members in what became known as the "Beyoncé Bowl." The performance, broadcast during the Ravens-Texans game, drew 27 million viewers on Netflix, providing unprecedented national exposure for the HBCU band program.
