Texas Southern University to Benefit from Megan Thee Stallion's $150,000 Scholarship Fund

Megan Thee Stallion, the Grammy-winning rapper, is heating up the education scene through a collaboration with the iconic snack brand Flamin' Hot by Frito-Lay.

Together, they're unveiling Flamin' Hot University, an innovative educational initiative that fuses spicy snacks with higher learning.

This isn't your typical campus partnership. According to a statement released about the joint endeavor on Tuesday, it's a remarkable philanthropic venture.

Megan Thee Stallion proudly endorses a unique collection of Flamin' Hot University merchandise. Curated by the acclaimed streetwear designer Melody Ehsani, this range features pieces like the Stallion Varsity Jacket and Hot Girl Club Sweater, promising to infuse bold style into collegiate wardrobes.

However, the heart of this collaboration lies in giving back. The proceeds from merchandise sales will contribute to a scholarship fund, potentially reaching up to $150,000. Who's the recipient of this fund? Texas Southern University (TSU), an HBCU located in Houston and the "Savage" emcee's cherished alma mater. The exclusive merchandise is available for purchase at MelodyEhsani.com. Aspiring TSU Tigers can find scholarship details here.

Ehsani, the creative genius behind the collection, exclaims, "Every piece in this collection embodies the spirit of Megan Thee Stallion and the fiery essence of Flamin' Hot snacks. I'm thrilled that we're creating bold and vibrant pieces while also giving back to the students at Texas Southern University."

But the philanthropic journey doesn't end there. Flamin' Hot is making a substantial contribution of $100,000 to the Pete and Thomas Foundation, a non-profit organization initiated by Megan in 2022. The foundation's mission? Empowering women, children, senior citizens, and underserved communities in Houston, Texas, and across the globe. Their recipe for success? Focusing on education, housing, and health and wellness. It's an initiative making a lasting impact.

She expressed her enthusiasm for this collaboration, stating, "Creating Flamin' Hot University has been an absolute delight, allowing me to blend my passion for food and fashion. But more importantly, I'm incredibly proud that we're supporting TSU students, establishing a significant scholarship fund, championing the Pete and Thomas Foundation, and highlighting the transformative power of education."

R&B Star Irish Grinstead of 702 Dies at 43

Irish Grinstead

Irish Grinstead, a prominent member of the '90s R&B girl group 702, known for hits like "Where My Girls At?," has tragically passed away at the age of 43. Her representative, Cory Taylor, confirmed the news to USA TODAY on Sunday. The cause of her untimely death remains undisclosed.

In a heartfelt statement shared on Instagram, LeMisha Grinstead, Irish's sister and fellow bandmate, expressed profound grief and the family's request for privacy during this difficult time.

LeMisha wrote, "It is with great sadness that I have to let you know that my beautiful sister and friend, Irish Grinstead, has passed away this evening. She has had a long battle, and she is finally at peace. That girl was as bright as the stars! She was not only beautiful on the outside but also within. Sharing the stage with her was a joy I will cherish for the rest of my life! We, the family, ask for prayers and respect for our privacy as we grieve an outstanding loss to our family. Love always, Misha."

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A post shared by LeMisha Gemini (@lemisha_the_gemini)

Irish Grinstead faced health challenges in the months leading up to her passing. In December 2022, 702 disclosed on Instagram that Irish was taking a "medical leave of absence due to serious medical issues." The specific nature of her medical condition was not disclosed in the post.

"It is our hope that she will experience a healthy and swift recovery in the upcoming months," the group conveyed at the time. "During this incredibly challenging period, we kindly ask for your understanding of our need for privacy and your continued prayers as Meelah and Misha continue to navigate and represent 702 for scheduled performances in 2023."

Irish Grinstead achieved fame as an integral part of 702, a group named after the Las Vegas area code, their hometown. The group's debut in 1996 saw the release of the gold-certified album "No Doubt," featuring the chart-topping single "Steelo," a collaboration with Missy Elliott.

702's most iconic hit, "Where My Girls At?," claimed the No. 4 spot on the Billboard Hot 100 chart in 1999. As news of Irish Grinstead's passing spread, tributes from fans flooded social media, featuring music video clips showcasing her signature dance moves alongside her sister and fellow band member, Kameelah Williams.

We had the honor and privilege of having #IrishGrinstead share her journey with us on BET Presents The Encore. Our thoughts and prayers are with the Grinstead family, friends, fans, and fellow members of 702. 🙏🏾🕊️ #BETRemembers pic.twitter.com/GlrSYxw9ik

— BET (@BET) September 18, 2023

While "Star" marked the group's last album, released two decades ago, they continued to captivate audiences with live performances, including several scheduled for the remainder of this year.

Irish Grinstead's twin sister, Orish Grinstead, sadly passed away in 2008.

Watch: Ben Affleck Fails to Impress Ice Spice With Rap Skills in New Dunkin' Donuts Commercial

Photo Courtesy Dunkin' Donuts

During the MTV Video Music Awards, Ben Affleck debuted a new Dunkin' Donuts commercial, where he teams up with rapper Ice Spice to create the "Ice Spice Munchkins Drink." In the ad, Affleck's attempts at freestyle rapping fall flat, leading to some amusing moments. The drink, described as "reminiscent of the texture of a cookies and cream shake," combines Dunkin's pumpkin-flavored donut holes with Frozen Dunkin' Coffee. Ice Spice, also known as Isis Naija Gaston, was nominated for four VMAs and won Best New Artist.