By: Julio Olmo
The Orange Blossom Classic Committee announced Denny’s Corporation as the Title Partner united with them in reviving Miami Garden’s Orange Blossom Classic.
This relaunch of the game and the rivalry between Florida A&M University Rattlers (FAMU) and the Jackson State University Tigers (JSU) also represents one of the longest-running football classics played by Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
The original Orange Blossom Classic (OBC) was a postseason college football game held between 1933 and 1978, featuring FAMU and another historically black school, that was commonly referred to as the “Black National Championship” game.
This year, history-making events will take place on Labor Day weekend, culminating with the big game at the Hard Rock Stadium in Miami Gardens, FL, on September 5, 2021.
Denny’s and the OBC Committee have collaborated with national influencers, corporate, foundation, and community thought leaders to bring education, empowerment, and unique engagement experiences to the local attendees, alumni, sports fans, and visitors who will be spending the holiday in South Florida.
Denny’s has provided more than $1.5M in scholarships to more college students in underrepresented communities.
Since 2019, the corporation has sponsored an HBCU tour that has introduced thousands of students to these American institutions of higher learning.
Being community-focused is a part of the Denny’s story and history.
As the Title Partner, Denny’s is joining with game organizers, local officials, Miami area entrepreneurs, Florida A&M University, Jackson State University, and other sponsors to ensure that South Florida’s premier event this Labor Day weekend is the Orange Blossom Classic. Denny’s support extends beyond the game and before the kickoff as fans of every age can enjoy activities that are going to foster a celebration of education, empowerment, and community engagement.
Friday events include the Careers In Sports and Entertainment Symposium, a Job Recruitment Fair, Commissioner’s Welcome Reception and Kickoff Luncheon, and a Battle of the Bands. Saturday’s lineup will offer attendees an Empowerment Fest and Health Village, a Parade and the One Big Community Concert. Gameday includes a Community Tailgate Experience and the OBC Game.
Denny’s has solidified their support with a multi-year partnership that will ultimately raise money for the athletic program and fund student scholarships for the participating schools.
The pandemic severely impacted both the restaurant industry and HBCU’s across our county. The Denny’s team and the OBC Committee working together to revive the game speaks volumes to what can be accomplished when people come together as a community, united by a mission.
Executive Director John Grant Joins Black College Experience For An Interview https://t.co/2azwHur64Q
— Black College Exp Journalist (@BlackCollegeExp) August 19, 2021
Orange Blossom Classic Website.
Denny’s Corporation is the franchisor and operator of one of America’s largest full-service family restaurant chains, based on the number of restaurants.
More HBCU Football Classics This Fall:
Sept 4-6 @BlackCollegeExp road leads to Canton Ohio for the @BCFHOF Classic for the @GSU_TIGERS vs @TSUTigersFB game!! So many events around this game! @EddieGeorge2727 @GSUCoachFobbs @OVCSports @theswac @nflnetwork Sept 5! @wyche89 @ProFootballHOF @iamakilblount47 https://t.co/TEq1FS0pAj pic.twitter.com/jQ7Z84xMd4
— Black College Exp Journalist (@BlackCollegeExp) July 9, 2021
27 days…… welcome to Atlanta! @MEAC_SWAC @BRAVESSPORTS @NCCUAthletics @NCCU_Football @AlcornStateFB @MEACSports @theswac @JohnTGrantJr pic.twitter.com/Ayta0Ppg2a
— Black College Exp Journalist (@BlackCollegeExp) August 1, 2021
ICYMI • @meacswacchallenge 🗣WELCOME TO ATLANTA. @collegegameday AND @firsttake the same weekend? Now THIS is how we kickoff college football!! Visit our website for a full list of weekly events! @BRAVESSPORTS @NCCU_Football pic.twitter.com/T3McNlwQQg
— Black College Exp Journalist (@BlackCollegeExp) July 20, 2021
I swear if you don’t know about HBCUs, you will learn in the Fall! We want all of the covie pic.twitter.com/olG20SRRH6
— Black College Exp Journalist (@BlackCollegeExp) July 26, 2021
Visit Black College Exp (NABJ Member)
Happy Tuesday from the CEO of @BlackCollegeExp 19 days until the kick off of Black College Football with @MEAC_SWAC with @BRAVESSPORTS & @NCCU_Football .. see you in Atlanta! @MEACSports @theswac pic.twitter.com/1TCBxOxfg8
— Black College Exp Journalist (@BlackCollegeExp) August 10, 2021
Also Listen To 🎙️ #MickNRick HBCU Sports Shows 🎙️