Diageo, a spirits and alcohol powerhouse, celebrated the 50th Annual Bayou Classic by gifting $50,000 scholarships to Grambling State University and Southern University on Nov. 25.
The company, which has a successful portfolio of names like Crown Royal, Cîroc, and Don Julio, sponsored this year’s Bayou Classic in New Orleans, Louisiana. Diageo put on a weekend of fun and enriching activities honoring and uplifting HBCU culture — with events like Greek step
shows and Battle of the Bands. For the past few years, the company has also dedicated itself to financially supporting intelligent students who need aid. This year, Diageo presented the presidents of GSU and SU with a $50,000 endowment fund each during the Bayou Classic.According to Essence, Dr. Danielle Robinson, head of Community Engagement and Partnerships at Diageo, said, “We are proud to return to New Orleans at the 50th Bayou
Classic for a 2nd year in a row and show up for the community during moments that matter and work with institutions like Grambling State University and Southern University that share our commitment in shaping a more equitable society.”She added, “Diageo was not only able to provide scholarships for the advancement community but also provided funding of over $11 million to over 29 HBCUs. We look to the future diverse leaders, to provide them with much needed financial assistance and champion them to success.”
This isn’t the first donation of its kind. In the past two years, Diageo has reportedly put $11 million into HBCUs and endowment programs for minorities. In addition to GSU and SU, they support students at big universities like Alabama State University, Fisk University, Howard University, Jackson State, and more.
Diageo’s donation comes amid a lawsuit against them by rapper Sean “Diddy”
Combs. Combs sued his former liquor partner in May and accused them of not investing resources into his brands Cîroc and DeLeón because they were reportedly “urban” products. He claimed Diageo limited distribution of his products and didn’t advertise them as much as others.RELATED CONTENT: Diddy’s Battle With Diageo Will Resume In 2024