Untold Stories: Breaking Barriers – Curtis Symonds’ Legacy in Business, Media, and Sports

Everfi’s 306 Black History Course and Black Business Titans Module

The NFL’s social justice initiative, Inspire Change, in collaboration with Everfi, sponsors the 306 Black History course, an educational program designed to highlight key figures, events, and contributions from the Black community. Within this course, the Black Business Titans module focuses specifically on entrepreneurship and the significant role Black leaders play in driving business innovation and economic empowerment. This module celebrates pioneers like Curtis Symonds, whose dedication, resilience, and success serve as powerful lessons for students. Through his story, learners are inspired to overcome obstacles, lead with vision, and make meaningful contributions to their communities.

Celebrating Curtis Symonds

In celebration of Black History Month, we honor Curtis Symonds, a trailblazer whose remarkable career in media, business, and community development exemplifies resilience, vision, and leadership. From his early days overcoming setbacks in sports to becoming a key figure at BET and launching the groundbreaking HBCU GO platform, Symonds’ story is a powerful example of perseverance and dedication. His influence extends beyond business success, leaving a legacy of mentorship, community engagement, and advocacy for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). By highlighting Curtis Symonds’ journey, we celebrate a Black Business Titan whose contributions continue to inspire generations to dream big and break barriers.

Curtis Symonds – Early Life and Humble Beginnings

Curtis Symonds’ story begins in Bermuda, where he was born before his family moved to Ohio. Growing up in a modest environment, Symonds learned the value of hard work, determination, and resilience early on. Despite facing challenges in high school sports and not making the team, he refused to let setbacks define him.

Symonds walked onto the basketball team at St. Joseph’s College, showcasing his persistence and drive. Later, he transferred to Central State University, where he completed his education with a major in Physical Education. His initial dream was to become a teacher and positively impact young lives in the classroom and on the sports field.

During this time, Symonds worked at a local sporting goods store, gaining valuable experience in customer service and small business operations. Although the store closed after a year, the experience taught him essential lessons about adaptability and perseverance, qualities that would serve him well in his future endeavors.

The Early Career Challenges and Lessons Learned

After the closure of the sporting goods store, Symonds found himself at a crossroads. During a career day event, he encountered an opportunity with State Farm Insurance in Columbus, Ohio. He joined the corporate office, gaining his first taste of the professional world.

However, it was a conversation with his high school principal that would change the trajectory of his career. His principal introduced him to the cable business, a burgeoning industry at the time. Symonds quickly immersed himself in learning every aspect of the field—from building cable systems to managing installations and handling customer payments.

“Sometimes, opportunities come from the most unexpected conversations. You just have to be ready to listen and act.” (Cascade Sports, 2023)

Symonds later joined Group W Satellite, a pioneering company owned by ABC, which aimed to create one of the first 24-hour news networks—a precursor to CNN. The venture was groundbreaking but ultimately short-lived. When Ted Turner acquired the company, Symonds lost his job. However, the experience proved invaluable, teaching him about the dynamics of satellite broadcasting and the potential of continuous news coverage.

This early phase of his career instilled in him a deep understanding of business operations and the importance of hands-on experience. Curtis Symonds was not just building cable systems; he was laying the foundation for a remarkable career in media and broadcasting.

Curtis Symonds at ESPN

After Ted Turner’s acquisition of Group W Satellite, Curtis joined ESPN as a local ad sales consultant, tasked with selling ESPN programming into local cable systems and managing regional advertising sales. His strategic approach and leadership quickly propelled him through the ranks, eventually becoming Director of ESPN’s Chicago office. His success in expanding ESPN’s local market footprint earned him recognition as a rising star in media sales.

“Salespeople aren’t created. What makes a salesperson great is one word: trust. The moment someone trusts you, you can do anything.” (Cascade Sports, 2023)

Curtis Symonds at BET

As a result of his success at ESPN, Curtis was recruited by BET founder Robert Johnson to lead the network’s affiliate marketing program. Accepting the role with one condition—no micromanagement—Symonds took on the responsibility of expanding BET’s cable distribution.

Under his leadership, BET grew its reach from 18 million to over 100 million homes, becoming a cultural and commercial force. Symonds played a key role in developing strategies that positioned BET as a premier destination for Black entertainment and culture. He was instrumental in building relationships with cable operators across the country, ensuring BET’s placement in key markets and driving subscription growth.

Symonds also helped shape the network’s marketing initiatives, fostering a connection with audiences that went beyond television screens. His ability to blend business strategy with cultural authenticity was vital in establishing BET as not only a leading network for entertainment but also as a platform for amplifying Black voices and stories on a national scale.

“Bob gave me the best advice: ‘Think of your department as your own company. You’re the president of that company, and it’s your job to drive the business.’” (The HistoryMakers, n.d.)

Curtis Symonds and the Washington Mystics

At a time when women’s professional basketball was still carving out its place in the sports industry, Curtis Symonds stepped into a leadership role with the WNBA’s Washington Mystics. Working alongside Sheila Johnson, co-founder of BET and owner of the team, Symonds applied his business acumen and passion for sports to help solidify the franchise’s presence in a competitive market. As an early advocate for women’s professional sports, he played a key role in building the team’s brand and laying a strong foundation for its long-term success.

Symonds’ work with the Mystics highlights his role as a pioneer in sports leadership, demonstrating his ability to drive growth and visibility in a space that historically lacked investment and attention. His efforts continue to be recognized as an important chapter in advancing women’s professional sports.

Legacy of Leadership and Mentorship

In the mid-2000s, Curtis founded Hoop Magic Sports Academy in Chantilly, Virginia, with the goal of creating a state-of-the-art facility where young athletes could train, grow, and find mentorship. Hoop Magic was more than just a gym—it was a community hub where youth could build confidence, discipline, and leadership skills through basketball and academic programs. The facility became a platform for young athletes to showcase their talents, with many going on to secure college scholarships.

At the heart of this initiative was his wife, Patricia Symonds, who played an essential role as the backbone of the project, providing unwavering support, guidance, and dedication to ensure its success.

Though Hoop Magic eventually closed, its impact has endured. The facility has since transformed into another athletic complex, a testament to Symonds’ forward-thinking vision. It’s clear that while the timing might not have been perfect, the foundation Curtis built with Hoop Magic was undeniably solid.

At one of the most prestigious private college preparatory schools in the DC Metro Area, St. Paul VI Catholic High School, Curtis Symonds has seamlessly carried forward his passion for mentorship and leadership. For over a decade, he has dedicated himself to coaching and developing young athletes in the highly competitive Washington Catholic Athletic Conference (WCAC), a league renowned for producing elite basketball talent and future collegiate stars.

“Sports are more than just a game—they’re a classroom for life lessons. I’m proud to be part of shaping these young players’ futures.” (Cascade Sports, 2023)

Beyond his professional achievements, Curtis Symonds is also a proud father to three sons: Demetrius, Karrington, and Curtis. Their love and support have been a cornerstone of his journey, providing strength and purpose throughout his remarkable career.

Curtis Symonds and the Growth of HBCU GO

In his most recent role, Curtis Symonds has been at the forefront of building HBCU GO, a leading streaming platform dedicated to Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Through HBCU GO, Symonds has created a space for HBCU sports, culture, and academic programming to thrive on a national stage.

Under his leadership, HBCU GO has secured key distribution deals, expanding its reach to millions of households. The platform not only broadcasts sporting events but also tells the stories of HBCU students, alumni, and institutions, amplifying their contributions and cultural significance.

“HBCU GO is not just about sports; it’s about creating visibility and celebrating the excellence of our schools and students.” (Mosley, 2024)

Conclusion

Curtis Symonds’ story exemplifies the spirit of resilience, innovation, and dedication that the NFL’s Inspire Change initiative and Everfi’s 306 Black History course aim to celebrate. Through his contributions to media, sports, and education, Symonds has created opportunities, elevated voices, and shaped countless lives. His legacy serves as a beacon for future generations, reminding us that true leadership is about paving the way for others to rise. As students engage with the Black Business Titans module, Curtis Symonds’ journey should inspire them to dream boldly, act courageously, and build a better future for their communities.

References

• Cascade Sports. (2024). Interview with BET pioneer Curtis Symonds: Hall of Fame inductee and visionary for HBCU GO TV’s future. Cascade Sports. https://cascadesports.tv/interview-with-bet-pioneer-curtis-symonds-hall-of-fame-inductee-and-visionary-for-hbcugo-tvs-future/
• Mosley, K. T. (2024, July 22). Curtis Symonds unveils an exciting revamp for HBCU GO Sports. Sports Illustrated. https://www.si.com/college/hbcu/football/curtis-symonds-unveils-an-exciting-revamp-for-hbcu-go-sports-01j3dyb6ckx4
• Symonds, C. (2022). Never a Gamble Always a Sure Bet! America’s HBCUs. BCHallofFame. https://www.bchalloffame.com/2022/speaker/383237/curtis-symonds
• The HistoryMakers. (n.d.). Curtis Symonds biography. The HistoryMakers. https://www.thehistorymakers.org/biography/curtis-symonds-41
• WCSU Community Conversations. (2024, September 27). Curtis Symonds: President and Co-founder of HBCU GO in conversation with Cheryl Durgans. WCSU.https://www.wcsufm.org/show/wcsu-community-conversations/2024-09-27/curtis-symonds-president-and-co-founder-of-hbcu-go-in-conversation-with-cheryl-durgans-yellow-springs-news