[Clark Atlanta University](https://www.cau.edu/about-clark-atlanta) student Romiya Patterson was featured on a nationally televised episode of *The Jennifer Hudson Show,* highlighting the impact of historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) and the transformative power of educational opportunity. The special episode, presented in partnership with the Student Freedom Initiative as part of HBCU Aware Fest 2026, featured Clark Atlanta University President Dr. George T. French, Jr., alongside Patterson and her mother, Akiya Patterson, in a conversation centered on resilience, academic ambition, and the importance of HBCU communities in shaping future leaders. During the episode, Patterson, a [business administration](https://www.cau.edu/academics/schools-departments/school-business) major with a concentration in marketing and a member of the Class of 2028, reflected on how her experience at Clark Atlanta University has strengthened her sense of purpose and professional aspirations. Jennifer Hudson later surprised Patterson with a $15,000 educational gift from the Student Freedom Initiative to support her academic journey. **A Defining Moment for a CAU Student** “Being on *The Jennifer Hudson Show* alongside President French was an opportunity to represent the excellence and legacy of Clark Atlanta University on a national platform,” Patterson said. “Clark has challenged me to grow academically, professionally, and personally while preparing me to lead with confidence.” The University community commemorated the moment with a campus watch party that brought together students, faculty, staff, alumni, and supporters to celebrate Patterson’s achievement and the broader impact of HBCUs nationwide. **Leadership, Culture, and HBCU Legacy** Looking ahead, Patterson plans to pursue a career in brand management and public relations, with long-term aspirations to own a public relations firm while continuing to expand her nonprofit and community engagement initiatives. She credits her experience at Clark Atlanta University with strengthening both her professional ambitions and her commitment to creating meaningful impact beyond the classroom. “This experience reinforced the importance of remaining intentional about the work I want to do and the impact I hope to make,” Patterson said. “Clark Atlanta University has challenged me to think bigger about my future, not only in terms of [career success](https://www.cau.edu/student-life/career-professional-development) but also in terms of how I can use my platform, education, and experiences to serve others. I want to continue building spaces and opportunities that allow people to feel seen, supported, and inspired.” **National Spotlight on HBCU Excellence** During the broadcast, President French emphasized the enduring legacy and standard of excellence represented by HBCUs and their students nationwide, underscoring the important role institutions like Clark Atlanta University continue to play in developing future leaders across industries and communities. “At HBCUs, we don’t just represent Black excellence — we represent excellence,” said French. The episode also featured award-winning filmmaker and producer Will Packer, performances celebrating the [culture and tradition of HBCUs](https://www.cau.edu/about/cultural-contributions), and conversations highlighting educational access, student success, and leadership development throughout the HBCU community. Together, the national spotlight served as both a celebration of HBCU achievement and a reflection of the transformational opportunities these institutions continue to create for students. **A Message of Possibility and Purpose** Patterson hopes her story will encourage other students to remain confident in their journeys, even during moments of uncertainty. “This moment represents possibility,” she said. “For students who may feel overlooked or unsure of their path, I hope this serves as a reminder that your story matters and that opportunities can emerge in ways you may never expect. Staying committed to your goals, trusting the process, and remaining consistent can open doors far beyond what you initially imagined.” ***Explore how Clark Atlanta University prepares students to lead, create, and excel on national and global stages at*** [***cau.edu***](http://cau.edu)***.*** ## Images provided by Romiya Patterson ![Four people smiling on a talk show set with orange and pink decor.](/sites/default/files/styles/idfive_image_gallery/public/2026-05/0-1_0.jpg?h=44377834&itok=UqYV8aR8) ![Two people sitting on a beige couch, engaged in conversation.](/sites/default/files/styles/idfive_image_gallery/public/2026-05/0-4.jpg?h=dd956524&itok=eix2j8mk) ![Three women smiling in a studio with a colorful backdrop.](/sites/default/files/styles/idfive_image_gallery/public/2026-05/0-2_0.jpg?h=44377834&itok=1pCieCoD) ![Two people embrace warmly on a talk show set with flowers in the background.](/sites/default/files/styles/idfive_image_gallery/public/2026-05/0-3_0.jpg?h=dd956524&itok=lG1Fe85e) ![Five people smiling on a talk show set, holding a $15,000 sign.](/sites/default/files/styles/idfive_image_gallery/public/2026-05/0_1.jpg?h=44377834&itok=R26G9KRT) Previous Next { "@context": "https://schema.org", "@type": "ImageGallery", "name": "Image Gallery", "mainEntity": { "@type": "ItemList", "itemListElement": [ { "@type": "ImageObject", "contentUrl": "https:\/\/www.cau.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-05\/0-1_0.jpg", "caption": "", "description": "Four people smiling on a talk show set with orange and pink decor.", "position": 1 }, { "@type": "ImageObject", "contentUrl": "https:\/\/www.cau.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-05\/0-4.jpg", "caption": "", "description": "Two people sitting on a beige couch, engaged in conversation.", "position": 2 }, { "@type": "ImageObject", "contentUrl": "https:\/\/www.cau.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-05\/0-2_0.jpg", "caption": "", "description": "Three women smiling in a studio with a colorful backdrop.", "position": 3 }, { "@type": "ImageObject", "contentUrl": "https:\/\/www.cau.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-05\/0-3_0.jpg", "caption": "", "description": "Two people embrace warmly on a talk show set with flowers in the background.", "position": 4 }, { "@type": "ImageObject", "contentUrl": "https:\/\/www.cau.edu\/sites\/default\/files\/2026-05\/0_1.jpg", "caption": "", "description": "Five people smiling on a talk show set, holding a $15,000 sign.", "position": 5 } ] } } ## For Media Inquiries For media inquiries please contact Clark Atlanta University at [404-703-2914](tel:404-703-2914)