With HBCU Homecomings coming to a close, we wanted to spotlight 5 HBCU grads who inspire us! At Grind Pretty, we believe in celebrating women who are not only shifting the culture but also giving back to it. There’s something undeniably magical about an HBCU alum; rooted in legacy, radiating brilliance, and walking with a purpose that can't be ignored. These five trailblazing women are shaping industries, championing equity, and turning their HBCU values into world-shifting work.
Let’s give these powerhouses their flowers.
1. Jasmine Crowe-Houston @jasminecrowe
CEO of Goodr
Alma Mater: North Carolina Central University
Jasmine Crowe-Houston is redefining what it means to be a social entrepreneur. As the founder and CEO of Goodr, she’s building a world where food waste meets food insecurity—with purpose, innovation, and equity at the forefront.
“Attending an HBCU taught me that purpose and excellence can coexist. It shaped my belief that business can be a force for good and that social entrepreneurship isn’t just about solving problems, it’s about reimagining what’s possible for our communities.”
2. Alizé Garcia @alizevgarcia
Director of Social Community Impact at Nike
Alma Mater: Howard University
A true force in corporate social responsibility, Alizé Garcia is building bridges between communities and global brands. From founding We Give Too to leading impactful initiatives at Nike, she’s proof that legacy and innovation can thrive side by side.
💬 “HBCUs serve as a trestle—bridging legacy and innovation, purpose and progress—connecting the brilliance within our campuses to the influence that shapes corporate culture.”
3. Nani Edwards @nanitheboss
Artist, Designer, & Nike Yardrunner
Alma Mater: Spelman College
Nani isn’t just creating art—she’s creating impact. With bold visuals and cultural commentary woven into every piece, this Spelman alum is bringing a new lens to design, one rooted in representation and reverence.
"Spelman enhanced the audacity within me to create and change the world one step at a time. Excellence isn’t something I chase; it’s something I embody. Every piece I create honors the lineage of powerful Black women who turned vision into voice and grace into impact. My art stands as both a reflection of that legacy and a beacon for the next generation to rise, create, and launch from where we are now."
4. Teneya Gholston @tenayalove
Founder of Texture Crush
Alma Mater: Florida A&M University
From beauty exec to founder, Teneya Gholston’s journey started in dorm room salons and now spans global boardrooms. She’s cultivating a textured hair movement with soul, style, and FAMU flair.
💬 “For me, representation is deeply personal — I didn’t just study beauty, I lived it. FAMU shaped my voice, sharpened my style, and taught me to lead with excellence. From doing hair in dorm rooms to steering beauty brands globally to founding Texture Crush — this is the legacy I’m building.”
5. La’Torria Lemon @latorria_l
Senior Publicist & Founder of Lemon-Lime Light Media
Alma Mater: Clark Atlanta University
A master of storytelling and media strategy, La’Torria Lemon is amplifying voices that matter. Whether in press rooms or on panels, she’s championing sisterhood and transparency in business.
“Sisterhood in entrepreneurship is something that should take place more. My circle of friends all believe in patronizing each other's talents and services, and being a cheerleader for the great things we are doing. We should celebrate each other more in business and also be open to transparency to help us enhance who we are and where we plan to go. It will never hurt me to water someone else's plant.”
These women are living proof that when you blend passion, education, and purpose—you create magic. As HBCU grads, they remind us that excellence is in our DNA. Their work uplifts communities, challenges systems, and redefines what success looks like.
Be inspired. Be bold. And always, Grind Pretty.
Want to nominate someone for a future spotlight? Drop us a DM @grindpretty or email us!
