Three Philander Smith Collegiate Choir members Nolan Butler, Heaven Clary, and Shanell Matthews are featured in a virtual performance by the HBCU National Concert Choir that was a part of the White House Initiative for Historically Black Colleges and Universities 2020. 

These students are a part of the 105 Voices of   Historically Black Colleges and Universities National Video Initiative performing “Lift Every Voice and Sing” and “United as One Global Voice.” All 105 HBCUs across the nation are represented.

According to Clary, “Over the summer, Dr. Stephen Hayes gave me an opportunity of a lifetime. In July of 2020, he asked me if I would do this audition and be a representative of Philander Smith College, and of course, I told him yes.”

Each student selected received a certificate of appreciation in recognition of their participation in this first-of-a-kind performance. The event premiered on YouTube September 23, as a kick-off for National HBCU Week 2020.