We’re Closing The Nature Gap
HBCUs Outside is a non-profit organization committed to helping students and alums of Historically Black Colleges and Universities get outside and to the top of the outdoor industry.
Listen To Our Founder's Story
Ron Griswell, founder of HBCUs Outside, chops it up on this episode of Aire Libre’s podcast covering everything from the catalyst for creating the non-profit to long-term vision.
> 49 Minute ListenOur Student Ambassadors
Meet our exceptional ambassadors who empower their fellow students to explore, express, and embrace their outdoor passions.
Alma Bangura
Bowie State University, '22
Christopher Burns
Alabama A&M University, '23
Jarvis Dean
LeMoyne-Owen College, '21
Abner Dickson
Bowie State University, '23
T'Kia Dublin
Elizabeth City State University, '22
De'Vonte Frazier
Elizabeth City State University, '23
Dia Harris
Howard University, '22
Kolbi Holston
Howard University, '22
Bussey Jada
Hampton University, '24
Ayen Kuol
Bowie State University, '23
Bradley Massey
Alabama A&M University, '23
Aria McElroy
Tennessee State University, '23
Nathan Oni
Howard University, '23
Tramar Pettaway
Elizabeth City State University, '23
Reese Register
Hampton University, '24
Roshell Jada Grant Wesley
Howard University, '23
Adrian Wilson
Florida A&M University, '21
Blake Wright
Tennessee State University, '23
Our Team
Meet our amazing team!
HBCUs Outside Founder
Ron Griswell
NC A&T State University Alum
Ron is an outdoor educator, consultant and entrepreneur dedicated to helping people of color get outside. He is the founder of HBCUs Outside, co-founder of Boyz N The Wood, recipient of numerous outdoor industry accolades and always eager to do more.
Social Media Manager
Marcia Kim
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Marcia is a social media manager, content creator, and model passionate about artfully amplifying the voices of her community. She has managed and created content for fashion, fitness, business, and wellness brands. Her favorite outdoor activities are hikes, and knowing where to go to eat afterwards.
Board Member
Bryan Spence
Elizabeth City State University Alum
Bryan is passionate about minorities being exposed to opportunities that help them envision and achieve their definition of success.He is the Sr. Program Manager in Global Emerging Talent at LinkedIn where he leads the campus recruiting strategy for HBCUs.
Board Member
Michael Griffin II
NC A&T State University Alum
Michael is a performance strategist, business advisor, and life coach focused on helping people identify and overcome barriers to reach their fullest potential.He is the founder of Evolastra, and has spent over a decade in client management with Bay Area firms like Reddit and Google.
Board Member
Christopher Franzese
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Christopher is a marketing executive with experience in the digital, innovation, and brand communications spaces. Over three decades of creative leadership, he has built brands at New York agencies including Anomaly, BBH, JWT, and Havas. He also serves as an instructor at the ADK Winter Mountaineering School.