Will Packer
Tuesday, March 17, 2026
Cécile Boko
IIn this special episode, “The Jennifer Hudson Show” spotlights the legacy and influence of HBCUs and the impactful work of Student Freedom Initiative, a nonprofit dedicated to supporting HBCU students, and its inaugural fundraising concert, AWAREFEST.
Hitmaker and film and TV producer Will Packer stops by to talk about his upcoming film “You, Me & Tuscany” and AWAREFEST.
Then, president and CEO of the Student Freedom Initiative Keith Shoates and Jennifer talk about the organization’s mission.
Tune in for a special performance from DRUMLine Live, a theatrical performance group based on the HBCU marching band tradition founded by Don P. Roberts, a former drum major and trumpet player with the renowned Florida A&M University Marching 100.
Episode Clip 1 of 7
March 13, 2026
The Happy Place Just Turned Into a Full HBCU Celebration!
“The Jennifer Hudson Show” partnered with Student Freedom Initiative as they kick off HBCU AWAREFEST. It’s the first national benefit concert aimed at bringing the student loan debt conversation to the forefront. #HBCUAwareFestPartner HBCU AWAREFEST is all about raising funds and awareness to make college more affordable AND help students build long-term financial stability. To support future generations of HBCU students, visit https://www.awarefest.org.
