Curtis Symonds is a trailblazing media executive, cable television pioneer, and champion for representation whose four-decade career has reshaped how audiences experience sports, culture, and storytelling. As Co-Founder and President of HBCU GO, the nation’s leading digital platform for HBCU sports and entertainment, Symonds has built unprecedented visibility for the 107 Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Under his leadership, HBCU GO has expanded nationwide through major broadcast partnerships—creating a dynamic, inclusive platform that celebrates HBCU athletics, education, and excellence.
Before revolutionizing HBCU media, Symonds was a key architect in the growth of Black Entertainment Television (BET). As Executive Vice President of Affiliate Distribution and Marketing, he helped increase BET’s national reach from 4% to 57%, fueling the network’s historic acquisition by Viacom. During his tenure, he also served as President & COO of BET Action Pay- Per-View, BET International, and BET on Jazz, leading multiple divisions that expanded BET’s global footprint. His career began at ESPN, where he played an integral role in the network’s early affiliate marketing and expansion efforts, contributing to its rise as a dominant force in sports media.
A dedicated advocate for diversity, mentorship, and workforce development, Symonds served as President of the T. Howard Foundation and spent a decade on the NAMIC Board of Directors, advancing equity and opportunity within the media and telecommunications industries. He is also a proud member of the Cable TV Pioneers organization.
Symonds’ visionary leadership has earned him numerous honors, including CableFax’s 100 Most Influential People, the NCTA Vanguard Award for Marketing Excellence, induction into the Broadcasting & Cable Hall of Fame, and the inaugural HBCU Honors Vanguard Award.
A proud Central State University graduate, Symonds continues to champion HBCU excellence, youth empowerment, and inclusive storytelling in media—cementing his legacy as one of the industry’s most influential and inspiring voices.
