Orange Blossom Classic Now A Powerful Annual Event For HBCUs

The Orange Blossom Classic is emerging as a household name in sporting events, all thanks to its executive director Kendra Bulluck-Major, who pulled out all the stops to ensure the HBCU classic was a success.

According to HBCU Legends, Bulluck-Major utilized her vast network and love for sports and HBCUs to create a memorable event in Miami Gardens, Florida. She shared how she made the spectacle happen to much positive feedback from fans and attendees alike.

“I think what makes our program unique is that we not only allow businesses to participate in events like tailgates or fan fests, but we also provide contracting opportunities, such as dropping porta potties at the parade. We ensure that businesses have all the necessary paperwork and then ask them to submit a quote from our business unit list.”

Bulluck-Major made the smart choice to incorporate many amenities and sponsorships into the football game. With the inclusion of exclusive seating options and complimentary food and beverage service, the event director made guests feel like they were part of a luxury experience while enjoying the Sept. 3 football game between Florida A&M and Jackson State.

Not only did she specialize in the trend of curating guests’ experiences, she made sure to collaborate with minority-owned businesses to help the community once they left the stadium. By mixing big-name sponsors and highlighting homegrown businesses, Bulluck-Major directed attention toward the benefits of supporting students through financial aid.

“The beautiful thing about this event is that if you are a corporate sponsor, you’re aligning yourself with well-known and respected brands. And that says a lot,” she said..

Florida A&M beat Jackson State, but the game’s impact on HBCU sports and the economic gains of the Black community is the big winner—and its success is just starting.

“…To date in Miami Dade County, this game has given a $27,000,000 economic impact,” Bulluck-Major told HBCU Legends. “That’s big. And we know that over $6 million has specifically gone to minority-owned businesses.”