SNIPES Deepens Its Legacy of Giving Back to HBCUs Through Pay It Forward

SNIPES deepens its impact across HBCU campuses with scholarships and cultural celebrations this fall.

Investing in Students and Communities

Since debuting Pay It Forward in 2022, SNIPES has awarded HBCU scholarships and organized campus activations to bolster academic and professional success for students at Clark Atlanta, Morehouse, Spelman, Cheyney, Morgan State, Central State, North Carolina A&T, FAMU, Norfolk State, and Hampton University.

In 2025, that investment grew through a strategic partnership with Culture Creators Agency, launching the Campus Changemakers Program at Morehouse, Spelman, and Hampton to give students hands-on campus ambassador and leadership opportunities while backing their growth with micro-grants and career pathways.

“Our work with HBCUs goes far beyond a campaign it’s a commitment,” said Kelley Walton, SNIPES USA CMO. “As an HBCU graduate myself, I understand the transformative power these institutions hold and the unique way they nurture excellence, innovation, and community.

These efforts are deeply personal to me because I’ve lived the HBCU experience and witnessed how the right support at the right time can change a student’s trajectory. Through Pay It Forward, we’re honored to invest in the next generation of leaders while celebrating the rich heritage that makes HBCU communities so extraordinary.

We are committed and honored to show up authentically and consistently for communities that have given so much to culture and society.”

Activation Highlights: Fall 2025

• Norfolk State University: SNIPES debuted in Nike’s Yard runners initiative with an open-to-the-public block party, exclusive Nike Air Max 95 Norfolk YR access, live music, and “Spartan Speaks” fireside chats with alumni leaders.

• Morehouse College: Homecoming weekend featured a SNIPES Yard Hub, Hip-Hop concert, and new scholarships, all dedicated to connecting students, fashion, music, and culture.

• Hampton University: Homecoming activations offered SNIPES support and scholarships, expanding the brand’s reach and partnership influence on the East Coast.

Pillars of the Pay It Forward Mission

• Empowerment through Education: Direct scholarships, mentoring, and hands-on leadership training in partnership with Values Partnerships; adapting real-world skills to drive upward mobility.

• Cultural Connection: Campus concerts, step shows, creative events, and digital storytelling highlight the impact of HBCUs on culture and empower local pride and visibility.

• Sustainable Integration: Ongoing programs unify SNIPES’ marketing, merchandise, and outreach with sustained annual investments, with a portion of proceeds from the exclusive Pro Standard collection supporting scholarships at each partnered institution.

SNIPES’ efforts are not one-off events but part of a comprehensive strategy to serve, honor, and reinvest in Black excellence nationwide, ensuring that HBCU communities gain the opportunities, respect, and recognition they have long deserved.