Chauna C. Lawson Is Redefining Black Creativity and Community with HBCU Geek Fest 2026

My name is Chauna C. Lawson, Founder and President of the HBCU Convention, and HBCU Geek Fest 2026 is more than just an event to me. It is a vision brought to life for every Black creative, gamer, anime lover, tech enthusiast, artist, and HBCU graduate who has ever felt like they had to hide parts of themselves to fit in.

As a graduate of Bowie State University and a former Howard University grad student, I’ve always understood the power of HBCU culture and community. But I also recognized something missing. There weren’t enough spaces intentionally connecting the Black nerd community with the HBCU experience in a way that felt authentic, exciting, and unapologetic. So I created one.

HBCU Geek Fest was built to celebrate the intersection of culture, creativity, intellect, and imagination. We wanted to create an environment where people could have candid conversations, embrace their passions, and simply be themselves without judgment. Too often, activities like gaming, anime, comics, cosplay, and tech have been stigmatized in our community. This event challenges that narrative.

To me, Black geek culture is a reminder of who we were before the world tried to define us. Our ancestors created civilizations, institutions, art, and innovation long before anyone tried to limit our brilliance. This culture is not just entertainment. It is expression, liberation, and joy.

What makes HBCU Geek Fest special is the experience. It’s the sound of laughter during panel discussions. It’s the excitement around the pop-up arcade. It’s the food, the backyard barbecue energy, the house party vibes, and the indoor-outdoor atmosphere that instantly feels like home. This year, we are especially excited to welcome Director Ryan Watson as he shares exclusive clips from his upcoming film “Paper Made,” a story centered around a Black martial arts fraternity on an imaginary HBCU campus featuring icons like Walter E. Jones, Michael Jai White, and Taimak Guarriello.

I also believe the connection between HBCU culture and gaming, anime, tech, and creativity is growing stronger every day. Black consumers influence culture across every major industry, and many of us come directly from HBCU communities. What used to be niche interests are now thriving communities on college campuses and beyond.

More than anything, I want attendees to leave HBCU Geek Fest 2026 feeling seen, heard, inspired, and free. In a world that can often feel exhausting for Black people, this event is meant to be a breath of fresh air. Your joy matters. Your creativity matters. Your passions matter.

HBCU Geek Fest 2026 is where creativity and culture collide, and I cannot wait for everyone to experience it with us.

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