The Chicago Football Classic (CFC) hosted a press conference at Amazon's Regional Office to announce its 2024 Scholarship Fund recipients and celebrate the event's 26th anniversary. 

The press conference featured prominent speakers, including Chicago Mayor Brandon Johnson, Alderman Stephanie Coleman, and representatives from key sponsors like Amazon, BMO Bank, and Sherman Dodge.

The scholarship fund, which has awarded over $1 million to date, grants $5,000 scholarships to 20 Chicago-area students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). In addition to the scholarships, Amazon provided laptops to the recipients, reinforcing their commitment to educational opportunities for underrepresented students. The event highlighted HBCUs offerings of academic, cultural, and athletic opportunities to African-American students, with a focus on encouraging them to bring their talents back to Chicago after graduation.

This year’s CFC theme, "More Than Just A Game: Academics, Athletics, Arts," highlights the broader cultural and educational experiences associated with HBCUs. Celebrating its 26th anniversary with the theme "More Than Just A Game: Academics, Athletics, Arts," this year's event, featuring a game between Kentucky State University and Morehouse College, will take place on September 21st at Soldier Field. with a coin toss by Rev. Jesse Jackson. 

Other planned activities include a High School Band Sound Off, College Fair, and Teen Fest, aimed at showcasing the culture of HBCUs and inspiring students to explore the opportunities these institutions offer. The event, supported by sponsors such as Sherman Dodge, which is also hosting a Jeep Wrangler raffle to raise funds for the scholarship program, is expected to draw significant participation from the local community.

Mayor Brandon Johnson spoke at the event. “As a former teacher, I believe strongly this next chapter of your life will transform you in what you want to be," he said, according to WGN.