The Black College Football Hall of Fame announced on Tuesday a new partnership with the John Madden Foundation, which will include the organization becoming a partner of the Allstate HBCU Legacy Bowl.
The John Madden Foundation will "provide vital support for HBCU students, reinforcing both organizations' shared commitment to education and opportunity," according to a press release.
"John Madden was a true champion of the game and a advocate for Historically Black Colleges and Universities," Doug Williams, Super Bowl XXII MVP and BCFHOF co-founder said in a statement. "We're truly grateful for this support, which allows us to continue opening doors of opportunity for HBCU students."
The HBCU Legacy Bowl is a postseason all-star game that showcases NFL draft-eligible players from Historically Black Colleges and Universities. The 2026 HBCU Legacy Bowl will be held on Feb. 21 in New Orleans and will be broadcast live on NFL Network.
"My father was a strong believer in the mission and impact of HBCUs," Mike Madden, son of John Madden and board member of the John Madden Foundation, said in a statement. "He had the honor of coaching Black College Football Hall of Fame legends like Art Shell, Willie Brown, Henry Lawrence, and Raymond Chester. I know he would be incredibly proud to support such a meaningful and impactful initiative."
It was also announced Tuesday that the John Madden Foundation will give funding for the HBCU Career Fair Caravan, providing "charter bus transportation for 800 students from 16 HBCUs (within a six-hour radius of New Orleans) to attend the Allstate HBCU Legacy Bowl Career Fair -- the largest HBCU career fair in the nation."
