Queens of the Hill!
Source: IG: @aliyahmayers_
Next stop is Virginia State University–one of the Commonwealth’s biggest gems–known for its world-famous cheerleading squad (the Woo Woos!), contagious campus culture, and underrated Homecoming experience that attracts thousands to the village of Ettrick (20 miles south of Richmond) every fall.
This year, the 11th ranked HBCU commemorated the 20th Anniversary of hit reality series College Hill by welcoming the cast back to the hill as honorary deputy marshals and VIP honorees for its 2026 Homecoming celebration, “College Hill: The Remix.”
In a nostalgic moment that reverberated through the HBCU community, Ray Cunningham, Deirdra Davis, Rodney Henry, Audrina Clyde, Arlando Whitaker, Bianca Olivo, Will Grishaw, and Anya Holland returned to their home on the hill for a celebration during the Homecoming Parade and the Homecoming football game.
Founded in 1882 as the Virginia Normal and Collegiate Institute, VSU is the first fully state-supported HBCU in the U.S. with the mission of graduating lifelong learners who are well-equipped to serve their communities, and producing world-class leaders who thrive in a diverse workforce.
With the motto “Greater Happens Here,” the ever-growing university boasts 31 Baccalaureate degree programs, 17 Master’s degree programs, two Doctoral degree programs, and seven certificates within six colleges: the College of Agriculture, the Reginald F. Lewis College of Business, the College of Education, the College of Engineering & Technology, the College of Humanities & Social Sciences, and the College of Natural & Health Sciences.
Notable VSU alumni include James Avery, Lucy McBath, Reginald Lewis, Pamela Bridgewater, Black Cobain, Miss USA 2016 Deshauna Barber, and more.
“We are exceedingly proud to have a Trojan represent the U.S.A. in this capacity,” said VSU President Dr. Makola M. Abdullah, Phd. in a statement after the pageant.
“Deshauna exemplifies scholarship, leadership and inner strength. She is a role model for all students.”
Have you experienced Virginia State’s Homecoming? If so, how was your experience? If not, will you be on the hill next year? Tell us down below and enjoy our gallery of Virginia State stunners who shined at Homecoming on the flip.
