In Forty Million Dollar Slaves: The Rise, Fall, and Redemption of the Black AthleteWilliam C. Rhoden painted a picture that resonates in Black America today: our greatest talents and treasures—athletes, artists, and leaders—often enrich institutions that have historically overlooked, excluded, or excluded us. The black community invests our talent in systems that generate little return for our own people. But what happens when we direct our gifts inward, into our own institutions? When do we build our own tables?
We saw what was possible through the model set by coach Deion Sanders – “Prime Time” himself. When Coach Prime accepted the call to lead Jackson State University, he didn’t just coach the football team. He reimagined what was possible for historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). He brought focus, investment and confidence to Jackson State, showing that HBCUs can be powerhouses for athletic and social transformation.
This step of the head coach caused a new wave. Former NFL stars like Tennessee State’s Eddie George and Grambling State’s Hue Jackson are following his lead, transforming college football by lending their credibility, leadership and expertise to focused programs. It’s not just about football, it’s about reshaping the future of higher education. When athletes at their level choose HBCUs, they force the national spotlight on institutions that are well-funded but never underwhelming.
Now, Michael Vick—perhaps one of Virginia’s most famous sons—stands at a similar crossroads. There’s talk of him coaching at Sacramento State, but there’s a more compelling, urgent story waiting to be written. Norfolk State University. Norfolk State is more than just a football program; it is a cornerstone of Black professional development in Virginia and across the country. It deserves leadership that understands its legacy and infinite potential.
Vic’s roots run deep into the state of Virginia. He is from Newport News. cut his teeth Virginia Tech. He represents an undeniable legacy of talent and perseverance at Commonwealth. When Vick returns home to coach at Norfolk State, he won’t just be coaching a team — he’ll be uplifting a community that needs him now more than ever.
HBCUs like Norfolk State produce 50% of our Black faculty, 80% of our Black judges, and a significant portion of our doctors, engineers, and leaders. Norfolk State alumni touch every aspect of our community, but for too long the institution itself has been under-resourced and neglected. Imagine the impact if we poured into these spaces the way we do for predominantly white organizations. Imagine Michael Vick taking Norfolk State to new heights financially, athletically and culturally.
What happens when we invest in Virginia, our communities and our youth? The ripple effects are transformative. Young athletes who would otherwise be overlooked will see themselves in Vick – a black man who has overcome adversity and emerged as a leader. Young professionals will find that greatness isn’t limited to the Alabamas and Ohio states of the world—it lives in our HBCUs, in the heart of Virginia.
Vic’s story is one of redemption, resilience and opportunity. Isn’t that what HBCUs stand for? Vick symbolizes salvation and resurrection in the face of adversity; Undoubtedly, it is a path that its athletes will follow throughout their lives. The ability to thrive in spaces built to center our voices, our brilliance, and our stories. It’s not about He chose Norfolk over Sacramento. It’s about choosing legacy rather than convenience. It’s about answering the call to inspire the next generation of Black leaders where it always belongs to us.
Former NFL stars are already changing the college football landscape. They send a clear message to players, coaches and donors: HBCUs are worth the investment and they are critical to the future of higher education. When leaders like Michael Vick step into roles at HBCUs, they bring more than football knowledge—they bring vision, resources and credibility that can reshape entire institutions. Norfolk State doesn’t just need a coach. It needs a leader, a visionary and someone who believes that this is where greatness resides.
Virginia gave Michael Vick a lot. It’s time to give back to a community that needs it, not a system that doesn’t need it. Norfolk State is calling. It’s time to answer.
The Reverend Robert K. Hoggard is the first Associate Director of Leadership Giving,
Diversity and Affiliation Initiatives at Yale University, where he plays a leading role
Implements plans to diversify Yale’s overall donor base. Robert is also a graduate
American Baptist College, HBCU. PhD candidate at the University of Rochester
Warner School of Education examines the experiences of African American men
Mostly students of White Institutions, Robert’s dream is to serve as a college
President of an HBCU. He returns to HBCU Buzz as a columnist
To amplify the voices and issues affecting Black higher education and culture.
Disclaimer: This piece was written prior to the announcement of the appointment of Michael Vick as head coach at Norfolk State University.
