School Days: A Recap About HBCUs

On May 6, presenter Sabrina Boykin explored the history of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and explained their impact for years to come.

From the impact of the Divine Nine, to high-quality educational opportunities, to the so-called "Howard effect" popularized in internet culture, the legacy of HBCUs is wide-ranging. Its positive impacts have allowed the Black community to flourish, especially during times in history when laws were designed against their success.

The sense of community students find when attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities started in the 1800s when the first HBCU, the Cheyney University of Pennsylvania (then-called African Institute), was created in 1837. Though the term HBCU had not yet been coined, the school served as a source of education for freed Black populations. Since then, over a hundred HBCUs have been established in the United States, all of which started from the common root of fostering education for freed Black Americans.

Why do we have HBCUs in the first place?

A common question posed by those who do not attend (or understand the purpose of) HBCUs is why they exist in the first place.

"It's so important to continue to learn and educate yourself to know the answers when people ask those questions," Boykin said.

HBCUs are an American phenomenon, a product of unique U.S. history. Put simply, in the 1800s and into the early 1900s, Black people were not allowed in white spaces; this included primary, secondary, and post-secondary educational spaces. Thus, Black people were forced to create their own: an investment in the generational education and success of those freed from slavery. Over time, their impact grew, causing the establishment of more and more HBCUs across the North, and later the rest of the country.

Twelve examples of HBCUs with their logos in the U.S. (Source: RK&K)

Among some of the most notable figures who attended HBCUs are Spike Lee (director), Kamala Harris (politician), Toni Morrison (author), Oprah Winfrey (TV personality), and Thurgood Marshall (civil rights activist and lawyer), among other talented individuals. These people have not only contributed greatly to American society by inspiring the youth, but they have also paved the way for the next generation of greats, no matter what field students pursue.

A montage of famous HBCU attendees:(Michael Strahan (far left), Thurgood Marshall (top), Kamala Harris (bottom left), Charity Adams Earley (bottom right), Oprah Winfrey (far right).

Today, over 200,000 students are enrolled at historically Black colleges and Universities across the country. Their legacy continues: the tight-knit communities that HBCUs create nationwide are long-lasting ones with connections, opportunities, and inspiration for social justice.

As we continue to learn and understand the legacy of these institutions, we should remember to Be Mindful, Be Positive, and Be Purposeful.

Best,

Scan the QR Code to become a member of our Mindful Discussions, check out our website, follow us on social media, join us on Slack, and stay up to date with everything By Sabrina!