Now and Later candy has announced the launch of its #RecognizeTheChew Class in Session Series. The program recognizes the hustle of entrepreneurs, go-getters and leaders from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The program is founded on the C.H.E.W. mantra, an acronym which stands for Champion, Hustle, Empower and Win. 

Clark Atlanta University's (CAU) Mass Media Arts department and the Cathy Hughes School of Communications at Howard University to showcase the impact of the HBCU experience and inspire the next generation of Black leaders. Each school will receive a $10,000 donation to create a scholarship fund for participating students as well as host a virtual seminar where students will have a chance to draw inspiration from influential HBCU alumni who have notably mastered the "art of the hustle" across various industries.   

"Now and Later is a brand built on the values of hard work, resilience, transformation and authenticity," says Alnese Thomas, brand manager, Laffy Taffy & Now and Later. “HBCU faculty, students and alumni embody these values daily. It's a pleasure to support the incredible impact these institutions play in fostering some of the nation's most influential leaders." 

"We welcome this partnership and gift in recognition of the entrepreneurial spirit and drive of our students," says Gracie Lawson-Borders, Ph.D., dean, Cathy Hughes School of Communications. "Together, we can empower students to succeed as leaders at this pivotal moment in the media and in society."  

Now and Later has also partnered with artist, fashion designer and Florida A&M University alum, Melissa Mitchell, to create a unique piece that will be included in backpacks distributed to 400 participating students. Additionally, Now and Later will feature inspirational stories from HBCU alums on social media throughout the duration of the campaign.    

"We appreciate Now and Later for selecting Clark Atlanta University's Mass Media Arts Department (MMA) as one of its first donation recipients,” says Gary Yates, associate professor and interim department chair, Clark Atlanta University. “Gifts like this truly help our MMA students to complete their journey of becoming the communications industry's next top leaders."  

CAU's class will be led by Spelman College alumnae Keshia Knight Pulliam, Emmy-nominated actress, entrepreneur and venture capitalist.  

"I look forward to partnering with Now and Later on this program and sharing my personal and professional experience with the #RecognizeTheChew Class in Session students," says Knight Pulliam. "This next generation of HBCU leaders are resilient and I am honored to provide any helpful nuggets to help fuel their entrepreneurial passions."  

Television personality, actor and philanthropist Terrence J will lead the session at Howard University's Cathy Hughes School of Communications. Terrence is an alum from North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University and was recently named the national ambassador for the Thurgood Marshall College Fund.  

"As an HBCU alum, I am thrilled to partner with Now and Later on its #RecognizeTheChew Class in Session Series," says Terrence J. "HBCUs are major pillars in the Black community that reflect the very essence of Black excellence, and when married with a nostalgic brand like Now and Later the possibilities can't get any better!"