Angel Hague, Claflin University's Class of 2020 valedictorian, will make remarks during a celebration of this year's graduates from historically black colleges/universities (HBCUs) on Saturday, May 23, on ESPN's The Undefeated. Hague will join 20 other HBCU valedictorians and campus ambassadors during the program's "HBCU Day" virtual presentation which can be seen throughout the day on The Undefeated's social accounts (Twitter, Instagram, Facebook) as well as on its website - www.TheUndefeated.com. The Undefeated is ESPN's content platform that explores the intersections of sports, race and culture.
Hague graduated summa cum laude and earned a bachelor's degree in political science. She is a native of Lansing, Mich.
Former United States President Barack Obama will headline a list of prominent African Americans who will deliver congratulatory and inspirational messages to the graduates. Grammy Award-winning artist Toni Braxton, actor Omar Epps, U.S. Senator Kamala Harris, The Heritage Foundation President Kay C. James, Hall of Fame wide receiver Jerry Rice, and ESPN commentator Stephen A. Smith are among the other celebrity guests. President Obama's message will post at 1 p.m. (EST).
"We are proud to present 'HBCU Day,' a celebration of the next generation of leaders who have been educated by our Historically Black Colleges and Universities," said Kevin Merida, ESPN Senior Vice President and Editor-in-Chief of The Undefeated. "The day is a reminder of the brilliance and potential of the 2020 graduating class, and of the role HBCUs continue to play in the development of this country."