Aarian Forman, a distinguished graduate of Tennessee State University, has been recognized on Forbes’ highly esteemed 2025 30 Under 30 list. This honor celebrates his innovative contributions to education and leadership development through Xceleader, an organization he co-founded to empower students from Historically Black Colleges and Universities across the nation.
What began as a single virtual discussion in 2018 about enhancing student leadership at HBCUs has significantly influenced the educational landscape. Under Forman’s guidance, Xceleader has successfully impacted over 8,000 students and alumni by offering workshops, mentorship programs, and nonpartisan initiatives. The organization has also garnered close to $1 million in funding to bolster its efforts.
This recognition from Forbes isn’t just a personal honor—it’s a testament to the power of HBCU education and the unique impact we’re making,” Forman remarked. He holds both bachelor’s and master’s degrees in business from TSU. “We’re creating pathways for students to build intergenerational wealth and close the racial wealth gap through entrepreneurship, civic engagement, and leadership development.”
Think. Work. Serve.
Forman’s impactful journey began at TSU, where he served as the president of the Student Government Association from 2016 to 2017. TSU showed me that higher education isn’t just about earning degrees—it’s about developing leaders who can create lasting change,” he noted. “The university’s motto of ‘Think. Work. Serve.’ continues to guide our mission at Xceleader.”
Working alongside co-founders Tevon Blair and Jade Agudosi, Forman has established Xceleader as a vital resource for student empowerment. The organization focuses on three primary areas: entrepreneurial guidance, civic engagement projects, and programs to uplift women. A recent initiative highlighted the organization’s forward-thinking approach, as five HBCU students were chosen to act as content creators for an upcoming conference in New Orleans, enabling them to gain practical entrepreneurial experience tailored to the contemporary digital landscape.
“HBCUs are national treasures,” Forman emphasized. “Their contributions to the American and global story continue to unfold in powerful and inspiring ways. Through Xceleader, we’re amplifying these contributions while creating new opportunities for the next generation of leaders.”
Through its extensive programs, Xceleader seeks to create enduring pathways to success and economic mobility within the HBCU community.