Gifts for the HBCU Graduate

Ask the millions of people who are fortunate to call themselves alumni of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) and they’ll likely brim with pride as they recount incredible memories during their beloved years on campus. As record-number enrollments are reached across various HBCUs, a new wave of alumni are being nurtured, marking the start of new journeys filled with possibilities—whether it's stepping into a dream job, starting a business, or continuing education. From professional essentials to self-care must-haves, these recommendations will equip new alumni with tools to thrive and celebrate their unique paths ahead.

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Black & Scholared® Logo Sweatshirt — Black & Scholared

One degree down, endless possibilities to go! As the ink from your newly minted degree dries, pick up this comfortable sweatshirt to celebrate this major milestone. A best-selling product of Black & Scholared®—a brand founded by a Black woman and HBCU graduate—this item is a great wardrobe add for the fall and winter months ahead. Plus, if you decide to buy a college-specific apparel piece, you’ll feel great knowing that 15% of your purchase will go back to your institution. Now, that’s how you give back! 

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THE MONTCLAIR — SPGBK Watches

Be stylish AND punctual with these colorful, retro-reminiscent watches made by SPGBK Watches. Founded and owned by North Carolina-born and bred HBCU graduates, this company is all about embracing the power of community and culture, while celebrating the power of education as a gateway to freedom and possibility. SPKBK Watches also includes a College Collection with custom watch faces honoring three HBCUs in North Carolina — Winston-Salem State University, North Carolina Central University, and North Carolina A&T State University. 

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HBCU ALUMNI Tee — HBCU Culture

Celebrate your rite of passage in becoming an alumni of your illustrious alma mater with this classic tee from HBCU Culture Shop. Founded by Florida A&M alumna Dainelle Riley, this brand honors the deep formative impact of HBCUs through quality, unique, eye-catching apparel. If representing your specific school is more of your speed, HBCU Culture Shop also features shirts and hats for Howard, Tuskegee, Clark Atlanta, and more.   

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BEGINNER PLANNER BUNDLE — Cloth & Paper

How many times have you heard “If you fail to plan, you plan to fail” from a nonsense professor? Well, this minimalist planner will make organizing your life a breeze and make your mentors proud. This planner bundle has a straightforward design with clear notebook covers, planner dividers and inserts, and discs to remove and insert pages as needed.  

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“Thanks! I owe ya one.” Thank You Cards — Neighborly

No one reaches success alone, so this recommendation is all about giving flowers to those who cheered you as you crossed the finish line. Whether it’s for a professor who looked out or a relative who sent care packages when you needed them most, be sure to tell them thank you with these vibrant thank you cards from Neighborly. Co-founded by two Black women—one of whom is an alumna of Howard University—Neighborly offers culturally resonant, visually appealing, witty cards that add flair to your gift-giving. 

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DELFONICS WOOD BALLPOINT PEN | 5 COLORS — Greer Chicago

Elevate your pen assortment game with these sleek writing utensils by Delfonics. The renowned, lightweight pens make smooth writing a breeze with their easy grip hexagonal shape. Offered in a wide array of colors, Delfonics are a great add to your office space. 

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BEVERLY HILLS CARRYALL DUFFLE LEATHER BAG IN CROCODILE PRINT BLACK NOIR— Silver & Riley

For wherever your HBCU graduate’s future takes them, they’ll need the right travel gear to get them there. This duffle bag offers plenty of room to pack for a brief work trip or weekend gateway with external pockets to quickly access travel documents. Handcrafted with Italian leather, this travel bag gives top-tier quality and sophistication in the name of efficient journeying.