When Kyle Stampley walked onto Central State University campus as a freshman, he tried to stay under the radar. It wasn’t long before the reserved business marketing major evolved into KB Thee MC, the lively campus figure he is today.
“I may have been thrown in with the sharks, but luckily, I learned how to swim,” Stampley said, reflecting on his transformative journey through college. His entrance into the hosting world came shortly after stepping foot on campus. His now mentors, DJ BriTheBull and Kay Money, inspired him, alongside other supporters like JaanMo. “Bri and Kay convinced me to start hosting, even though I was quiet and reserved at the time. A few days later, they called me to bring my guys to my first-ever party, and from then on, I’ve had a mic in my hand and a smile on my face,” he recalled.
Even though Stampley enjoys his job, there have been difficulties along the way. During his sophomore year, he lost his grandmother, which put his resilience to the test. He says he managed that difficult phase with the help of his university community. He gives special thanks to the priceless advice of his counselor, Mrs. Harvey.
“Dropping out was never an option because I knew that’s not what she would’ve wanted,” he said about his grandmother. This motivation drives him to succeed and uplift others while doing so. “What I’m most proud of is my humility, which I strive to maintain despite the attention, hype, and distractions that come with being in the entertainment industry.”
Stampley has received recognition, including being named one of HBCU Buzz’s Top 5 HBCU Hosts. Yet, accolades are not what fuel his fire; it’s his genuine desire to impact others’ lives positively. “I’m passionate about making others feel valued, whether it’s through small gestures like giving flowers or leaving kind notes around campus,” he said. “My ultimate goal is to brighten people’s days and bring a smile to everyone I encounter.”
Offstage, Stampley plans to pursue a master’s degree, establish a mentor/mentee program for men within the university and surrounding community, and create a documentary about his HBCU experience to inspire potential students.