Join us on June 28, 2025, for the 12th Annual HBCU Run/Walk and Community Day: HBCUs Run the District. This event is a dynamic and inspiring community event that celebrates the legacy of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) while promoting health, wellness, and education. Each year, participants of all ages and fitness levels come together to enjoy a day of fitness, fellowship, and cultural pride. The event serves as a platform to raise funds for scholarships awarded to deserving local students who aspire to attend HBCUs. These scholarships are a vital part of our mission by helping to remove financial barriers and supporting students in their pursuit of higher education. Thank you in advance for investing in your personal wellness, supporting local businesses and the economy, while helping talented young individuals continue the legacy of excellence and service at an HBCU. Together, we’re building brighter futures and stronger communities. Every registration counts, both in-person and virtual.
Dr. Makola M. Abdullah, President of Virginia State University
Dr. Abdullah is a trailblazer in higher education, making history as the youngest African American to earn a Ph.D. in engineering. Since becoming VSU’s 14th President in 2016, his visionary leadership has taken the university to new heights:
Join us in celebrating this incredible leader as he leads the way during this year’s 5K!
Teams: To increase the fun, everyone will be considered part of a team! If you don’t have a specific team, join the first option to be part of our DC HBCU Alumni Alliance.
The in-person event will open at 6:00 AM and will start at 7:00 AM at The Sandlot Anacostia, 633 Howard Street, SE, Washington, DC 20020, which is accessible by metro with free parking available.
If you choose the virtual option, the 5K run/walk can be held from any location you choose. You can run, jog, or walk on a road, a trail, a treadmill at the gym, or on a track. You can run your race at your own pace and time it yourself.
Virtual registrations include a commemorative medal and shirt. Virtual registration cannot be transferred to an in-person registration.
In-person registrations include a commemorative medal, shirt, and a race bib. Timed bibs will be given to adults only. Children will receive untimed bibs. Due to limited shirt availability, we are now mailing shirts to in-person participants who register on or after May 22, 2024. You will still receive a number bib at the race.
Photo Gallery: Meet some of the race registrants here. You can add your photo to the registrant portal after you complete your registration.
Child Registration: must be 12 or younger on the day of the event
Adult Registration: 13 or older by the day of the event
As of May 17, 2025 – If you register after May 17th, your swag items will be mailed days after the race. Shipping charges will apply.
All Race Registrations are NON-REFUNDABLE and NON-TRANSFERABLE
The host hotel for the weekend is Cambria Navy Yard Riverfront Hotel, 69 Q Street,
SW, Washington, DC, 20024.
Cambria Navy Yard Riverfront Hotel,
69 Q Street, SW, Washington, DC, 20024 on:
Thursday, June 26th, 2025, from 5:00 PM to 9:00 PM
Friday, June 27th, 2025, from 9:00 AM – 9:00 PM
It is strongly encouraged that participants pick up their race packets during the designated times above.
To pick up a race packet for another participant, you will be required to provide the name and confirmation number at packet pick-up. Race packets will be mailed to all virtual registrants.
*** DO NOT bend or fold the race bib to ensure timing accuracy. *
ALUMNI ROW – This is the place for HBCU alumni, family, friends, and supporters to socialize and become reacquainted. HBCU Alumni chapters will have tables set up to provide information about each of the respective colleges and universities they represent; this is also an opportunity to meet other HBCU alumni in the Washington, DC Area. DCHBCUAA member chapters may reserve a table or marketing space in the alumni row. Reserve Your Space Today! Email vendors@dchbcu.org if you have any additional questions.
Come volunteer at the HBCU 5K Run/Walk – where community, culture, and cause come together! Whether you’re handing out water, cheering on participants, or helping with set-up and logistics, every role plays a part in supporting scholarships for students attending HBCUs. Your time and energy help ensure that this event runs smoothly and continues to make a meaningful impact.
No experience is needed—just bring your positive energy and willingness to help! Let’s uplift our future leaders together.
June 26–28, 2025
HBCU CONNECT is commemorating and celebrating 25+ years of recruitment contributions.
HBCU CONNECT is the largest network of students, alumni and supporters of Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs). The 3-day conference includes personal and professional development sessions, a career fair, and entertainment activities in conjunction with the DC HBCU Alumni Alliance 5K Run/Walk at Sandlot Anacostia, Washington DC on June 28, 2025.
While the event will be in proximity to HBCU supporters in Maryland, Virginia and Washington DC (collectively, home to 11 HBCUs), marketing efforts will include all HBCU graduates and students nationwide.
Register for HBCU Connect’s Conference & Career Fair today!
June 27, 2025
Perch SW – Rooftop
5:30 PM – 9:00 PM
69 Q Street,
SW, Washington, DC, 20024.
