Celebrating the Legacy of Historically Black Colleges and Universities at Citizens Bank Park

On Wednesday, August 19, before that night’s game against the Miami Marlins, the Phillies hosted the HBCU Celebration at Citizens Bank Park, inviting local Historically Black Colleges and Universities to celebrate their legacies and bring information to prospective students.

As part of the celebration, HBCUs took part in a mixer at Pass & Stow, which included live entertainment like a step show, dance performance and drumline showcase. During pregame ceremonies, the Phillies celebrated with multiple first pitches, including Enon Tabernacle Baptist Church Senior Pastor Reverend Dr. Allyn E. Waller; FOX29 “Good Day Philadelphia” co-host Alex Holley; and 1983 NLCS MVP and 2026 Negro Leagues Baseball Museum Hall of Fame inductee Gary “Sarge” Matthews, all of whom were caught by 1993 National League champion and 2008 World Series champion coach Milt Thompson.

Also as part of the day’s festivities, the Honorable Rochelle Bilal, the first African American woman elected as sheriff in the 343-year history of the Philadelphia Sheriff’s Office, was honored on-field as that night’s Toyota Hometown Hero.