The 17th annual Black College Football Hall of Fame’s weekend of festivities ended with its induction ceremony of the six new class members: Jimmy Smith (Jackson State), Eddie Robinson Jr. (Alabama State), Nick Collins (Bethune-Cookman), Tyrone Poole (Fort Valley State), Coach Rudy Hubbard (Florida A&M), and Steve Wyche (Howard). The men were honored for their achievements and contributions to advancing Black College Football on and off the playing field. To commemorate their induction, the new class members received gold rings with solid black onyx and the Black College Football Hall of Fame black jackets.“What we have with the Class of 2026 is an incredible showcase of excellence, leadership, and impact that continues to come from Historically Black Colleges and Universities,” Black College Football Hall of Fame Co-Founder and 2011 Inductee Doug Williams said in January. “When the Black College Hall of Fame was established, its purpose was to elevate and recognize the past, present, and future of Black College Football. This class exemplifies that mission.”The ceremony featured a solemn and respectful moment honoring the life and impact of Charlie Neal, a member of the 2013 Black College Football Hall of Fame class, who passed away on May 13, 2026. The segment was produced by his longtime friend, Curtis Symonds, HBCU GO’s president. Neal will forever be known as the “Voice of HBCU Sports,” dating back to his days with BET, ESPN, and HBCU GO.
