Dr. Linda J.M. Holloway, an Associate Professor at Alabama State University, and Dr. April T. Berry, an Adjunct Professor at the University of South Alabama, have teamed up again—but this time, they’re bringing something unique to the table: a curriculum study guide inspired by Kendrick Lamar’s performance at the 2025 Super Bowl Halftime show.
Both Dr. Holloway and Dr. Berry believe Kendrick used his Super Bowl stage in New Orleans to turn the halftime performance into a mini classroom. The symbolism in his performance sparked a lot of debate—some people got it, while others were left scratching their heads. So, to help break it down, the two professors have crafted a curriculum that combines educational insight with mental health awareness, focusing on cultural symbolism and offering a learning experience for students both in and outside of the classroom. They’re giving the world a chance to learn alongside Kendrick as the teacher.
For Dr. Holloway, this is a way to emphasize the importance of cultural competence. “If you lack cultural awareness, can’t think critically, or aren’t open to expanding your knowledge, you miss a lot. Things can easily be misunderstood,” she explains. “That’s why we created this study guide—it’s free and available to educators everywhere.”
This isn’t the first time these two have made an impact. A couple of years ago, they released a study guide called “Black Fathers Matter: Unpacking the Kirk Franklin Story,” which focused on Franklin’s search for his biological father. They also dropped a curriculum guide on the Montgomery Riverboat Brawl. Through these guides, they encourage deep critical thinking on topics that help build cultural awareness.
Their goal is clear: provoke thoughtful analysis, encourage cultural competency, and create spaces for real learning.
