Claflin University responded to concerns over R&B singer Brian McKnight being slated to perform at the HBCU’s upcoming 31st annual Presidential Scholarship Gala.

On Thursday, the university shared a statement on Instagram stating that it is “currently exploring options” amid backlash over inviting the “Back at One” singer to the event.

“Claflin University values and respects the perspectives of our constituents and stakeholders. We take your concerns regarding the artist for the Scholarship Gala seriously and are currently exploring options,” Claflin University President Dwaun Warmack said.

“Thank you for your loyal and continued support as we work to ensure this event is a beacon of light for our institution while raising needed funds to support student scholarships.”

The statement has spread across social media, where users have shared opinions on Claflin University’s invitation to McKnight amid past controversies involving his children.

“As an HBCU, why you would want to platform a criminally degenerate deadbeat is insane. Black people have got to stop rewarding shit like this. If Diddy was out and offering free performances, I’m sure a few HBCUs would be seeking his services. Like raise the bar for yourselves,” one user wrote in a post shared on X, formerly known as Twitter.

As an HBCU, why you would want to platform a criminally degenerate deadbeat is insane. Black people have got to stop rewarding shit like this. If Diddy was out and offering free performances, I’m sure a few HBCUs would be seeking his services. Like raise the bar for yourselves.
— Alien Supara (@AlienSupara) October 24, 2025

“Yeah…they really should have researched before booking him,” another user wrote.

Yeah…they really should have researched before booking him.
— I’M NO ANGEL EITHER 👑🐝 (@JonnieBeGood2Me) October 24, 2025

“McKnight’s proclivity for seeking validation for his decisions concerning his family through social media has reared its ugly head. There are consequences for petty and melodramatic actions. Men should think critically before speaking,” a third user wrote.

McKnight’s proclivity for seeking validation for his decisions concerning his family through social media has reared its ugly head. There are consequences for petty and melodramatic actions. Men should think critically before speaking.
— Tyrone Riouse (@TyroneRiouse) October 24, 2025

One user, who identified as a Claflin University student, pointed out the generational differences between the staff and the students regarding this situation.

“seeing a lot of ppl ask why would we book him. as a claflin student, i will say our staff is much older(out of touch icl) & probably had already had this planned for months to a year. we as students expressed our concerns tho & they quickly heard them & acted,” the person wrote.

seeing a lot of ppl ask why would we book him. as a claflin student, i will say our staff is much older(out of touch icl) & probably had already had this planned for months to a year. we as students expressed our concerns tho & they quickly heard them & acted
— 318. 843. (@jammarrea) October 24, 2025

Why is McKnight facing backlash?

The Buffalo, New York, native has faced backlash after using social media to share information as well as photos of his new life with his second wife, Dr. Leilani Mendoza, her children from previous relationships, and the couple’s first child, Brian Kainoa Makoa McKnight, who was born in January 2023, according to Blavity.

Social media users were mostly vocal about his treatment of his biological children, sons Brian Jr. and Niko, whom he shares with his ex-wife Julie, and his daughter Brianna and son Clyde, from previous relationships.

In May, Niko died at age 32 from stage 4 colon cancer, McKnight’s uncle, Claude, revealed in a TikTok video at the time.

Claflin University

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