Owings Mills, Md. — Maryland Public Television (MPT) is gearing up for its national celebration of HBCU Week, set to launch next week with new short films and programming. WEAA’s Dr. Karsonya “Kaye” Wise Whitehead will co-host the special broadcast, HBCU Week NOW, which highlights the history and legacy of Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
“With HBCU Week NOW in its third year, we have significantly expanded our storytelling footprint while continuing to celebrate Historically Black Colleges and Universities as unique and cherished national resources,” said Travis E. Mitchell, MPT senior vice president and chief content officer and Morgan State University graduate. “We are grateful for the support and collaboration of dozens of HBCUs and their students, faculty, and leadership as we continue to grow this important project."
The broadcast will feature eight new short films produced by PBS stations, joining 10 others released over the past two years. Partners include MPT, Howard University Television, PBS North Carolina, Louisiana Public Broadcasting, WABE (Atlanta), South Carolina ETV, Alabama Public Television, and WXXI (Rochester, N.Y.).
With a focus on the fine and performing arts, the films will showcase Southern University’s jazz program, Spelman College’s Glee Club, Miles College’s Purple Marching Machine, the fashion arts programs at North Carolina A&T State University and North Carolina Central University, and Howard University’s Department of Theatre Arts.
“As MPT continues to shine a national spotlight on the enduring contributions of Historically Black Colleges and Universities, Morgan State University is proud to stand in support. HBCU Week not only honors our rich legacy but also amplifies the voices and talents of a new generation of students whose stories deserve to be seen, heard, and celebrated,” said David K. Wilson, president of Morgan State University. “This initiative underscores the transformative role HBCUs portray in shaping leaders, advancing knowledge, and expanding opportunity across our nation.”
In partnership with Black Public Media, MPT will debut the HBCU Week NOW Student Film Festival in January 2026, featuring 10 original short projects from HBCU students.
MPT’s local celebration will provide about 30 hours of HBCU content to viewers in the mid-Atlantic region during the week of Sept. 8–14.
More details about programming and viewing options are available at mpt.org/hbcu.