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The Surge in HBCU Enrollments: Why More Students Are Choosing HBCUs

The Surge in HBCU Enrollments: Why More Students Are Choosing HBCUs

In the 2024-2025 academic year, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have experienced a significant increase in applications and enrollments. Following the Supreme Court’s June 2023 ruling to end race-sensitive admissions, many Black students are choosing HBCUs for their inclusive educational environment. FocusQuest recognizes the growing importance of these institutions as they continue to provide crucial opportunities for Black students.

Why the Surge?

Several factors are driving this rise in HBCU enrollments:

  1. Supreme Court’s Affirmative Action Decision: The end of race-sensitive admissions at predominantly white institutions (PWIs) has led many Black students to seek a supportive environment at HBCUs, where their identity and culture are celebrated.

  2. Financial Support: Recent multimillion-dollar donations have boosted academic programs and resources at many HBCUs, making them even more appealing.

  3. Safe and Inclusive Environments: Amid social unrest at PWIs, many students are gravitating towards HBCUs for their sense of community and inclusivity.

Notable Enrollment Increases

Several HBCUs have seen notable growth this year, including:

  • Bethune-Cookman University (Florida): Enrollment grew by 24%, reaching over 3,100 students.

  • Hampton University (Virginia): 17,000+ applications for the 2024-2025 academic year.

  • Shaw University (North Carolina): A 36% increase in new student enrollment.

  • Spelman College (Georgia): Welcomed 700 new students, with a lower acceptance rate reflecting growing competition.

The Future of HBCUs

FocusQuest understands the crucial role HBCUs play in shaping the educational and professional success of Black students. These institutions not only provide high-quality academic programs but also foster a sense of belonging and cultural pride. As interest in HBCUs continues to rise, their significance in the higher education landscape grows stronger.

As more students choose HBCUs, FocusQuest remains committed to supporting these institutions and ensuring that students have access to the information they need to make informed decisions about their future.


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What the Closure of the U.S. Department of Education Could Mean for Current & Future Students (By Chad Williamson)

What the Closure of the U.S. Department of Education Could Mean for Current & Future Students (By Chad Williamson)

In a bold and controversial proposal, federal lawmakers are considering closing the U.S. Department of Education (ED) and transferring the management of federal student loans to the Small Business Administration (SBA). If you’re currently enrolled in an online degree program—or considering starting one—this development could significantly impact your financial aid options. At FocusQuest, we want to ensure you have the information and support you need to navigate this transition with confidence.

What’s Changing?

The proposal would dissolve the ED—long responsible for overseeing federal student aid programs—and move the entire $1.6 trillion student loan portfolio under the SBA. While the SBA has experience in managing large-scale loan programs, its focus has traditionally been on small business financing, not higher education.

Key Concerns for Students
  1. Disruptions in Loan Processing The SBA’s unfamiliarity with student loan infrastructure could result in delays or errors in processing federal aid. As adult learners balancing work and family commitments, any delay in financial aid could disrupt your course enrollment or ability to purchase learning materials.
  2. Uncertainty Around Income-Driven Repayment Plans Federal programs such as Income-Driven Repayment (IDR) and Public Service Loan Forgiveness (PSLF) may undergo revisions—or potentially face elimination. These programs are especially important for adult learners who often juggle education alongside full-time employment or public service roles.
  3. Pell Grants and Financial Support Pell Grants, a key source of non-repayable aid for many online students, are currently managed by the ED. It’s unclear whether the SBA would continue offering such grants, or under what terms.
  4. Record-Keeping and Servicing Issues Transferring millions of loan records from one agency to another could lead to data loss or servicing errors. Students may face challenges in accessing accurate payment histories or applying for deferments.
What You Can Do Now
Current Students
  • Stay Updated
    Follow credible news sources and official government communications. Check updates directly from studentaid.gov for the latest.
  • Download and Store Your Records
    Keep digital and hard copies of your financial aid documents, loan agreements, and repayment history.
  • Consider Contingency Plans
    If you’re close to graduation, assess how possible delays might affect your final semester. Explore whether your institution offers emergency financial support.
  • Engage With Your Institution
    Many online universities, including FocusQuest, are preparing to support students during this potential transition. Reach out to your advisor for personalized guidance.
Prospective Students
  • If you’re considering enrolling in a degree program, now is the time to act.
  • Changes to federal financial aid may impact future eligibility and funding availability.
  • FocusQuest encourages all prospective students to take advantage of current aid programs while they are still in place.
  • Don’t wait until uncertainty affects your educational plan
  • Contact FocusQuest today to speak with an advisor and take the next step toward your degree.

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Celebrating National Volunteer Month: The Power of Giving Back

Celebrating National Volunteer Month: The Power of Giving Back

At FocusQuest, we believe in the transformative power of education—but we also know that learning extends beyond the classroom. National Volunteer Month is a time to recognize and celebrate the incredible impact of volunteers who dedicate their time, skills, and passion to making a difference.

Why Volunteering Matters

Volunteering is more than just giving back; it’s an opportunity to grow, connect, and inspire. Whether mentoring students, serving in local communities, or leading service projects, volunteers play a vital role in shaping a better future. For students, engaging in volunteer work fosters leadership, strengthens resumes, and builds a sense of purpose that extends into their academic and professional lives.

Making an Impact in Education

Education and volunteerism go hand in hand. From tutoring younger students to participating in campus-led initiatives, student volunteers help create a culture of support and collaboration. At FocusQuest, we encourage students to use their knowledge and skills to uplift others—because when we help others succeed, we all rise together.

How You Can Get Involved

Looking for ways to make an impact? Here are some ways to give back this month:
Mentor a Student – Share your academic experiences and offer guidance.
Volunteer Locally – Join community service projects in your area.
Support a Cause You Care About – Find organizations that align with your passions.
Inspire Others – Share your volunteer journey to encourage others to take action.

Let’s Celebrate the Spirit of Service

National Volunteer Month is a reminder that every act of kindness—big or small—makes a difference. Whether you’re already an active volunteer or looking for ways to get started, your contributions matter. At FocusQuest, we honor and appreciate all those who dedicate their time and talents to uplifting others.

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The Power of Connection: How Relationships Drive Student Success at HBCUs

The Power of Connection: How Relationships Drive Student Success at HBCUs

In today’s fast-paced world, where automation and efficiency dominate nearly every industry, one timeless truth remains—relationships matter. While résumés and credentials play a role in career success, personal connections often open doors and create lasting opportunities. This is especially true at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), where the strength of relationships has been a defining factor in student success for generations.

The Relationship Advantage at HBCUs

For decades, HBCUs have cultivated a unique educational experience that prioritizes mentorship, community, and personal investment. Unlike larger institutions where students may feel like just another number, HBCUs excel at fostering meaningful connections between students, faculty, and alumni. These bonds extend beyond the classroom, shaping careers and empowering students to navigate the professional world with confidence.

At FocusQuest, we recognize that innovation in online education must complement, not replace, the deeply rooted traditions of mentorship and connection at HBCUs. As a student acquisition and success partner (SSP) firm exclusively dedicated to assisting HBCUs and Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs), we help develop online educational programs that expand access while maintaining the personal relationships that set these institutions apart.

Faculty members at HBCUs don’t just teach—they invest in their students’ futures. They take the time to understand their ambitions, guide them through challenges, and advocate for their success. When a student needs a letter of recommendation, it’s not a generic formality—it’s a deeply personal endorsement based on years of mentorship and encouragement.

This emphasis on relationships is especially critical for first-generation college students, who often face unique challenges in higher education. Many are navigating systems that weren’t originally designed with them in mind, making mentorship and advocacy essential components of their success. HBCUs provide a supportive environment where students receive not just academic instruction but also the confidence and network they need to thrive.

Beyond the Classroom: A Lifelong Network

The strength of HBCU relationships doesn’t end at graduation. Alumni remain deeply connected to their institutions, often returning as mentors, donors, and recruiters. This commitment to community creates an intergenerational support system that continues to uplift students long after they leave campus.

HBCU homecomings, for example, are more than just celebrations—they are reunions of a family bonded by shared experiences and a commitment to collective progress. These gatherings reinforce the idea that success is not just about individual achievement but about lifting others as we climb.

For students, this network is invaluable. Whether it’s securing internships, job opportunities, or professional mentorship, the relationships formed at HBCUs create pathways to success that extend well beyond a degree. These personal connections ensure that students don’t just enter the workforce but do so with confidence, support, and a built-in network of advocates.

Preserving What Makes HBCUs Special

In an era where higher education faces increasing pressure to scale up and streamline processes, HBCUs must resist the urge to conform to a one-size-fits-all model. While affordability and access are crucial, they should never come at the cost of the personal connections that make these institutions unique. HBCUs are not simply degree-granting institutions—they are incubators of leadership, innovation, and community.

As conversations about the future of higher education continue, it is essential to highlight the unparalleled value of HBCUs. These institutions are not relics of the past but blueprints for the future—demonstrating that education is most impactful when built on relationships.

At FocusQuest, we understand that student success is about more than coursework and credentials—it’s about connections. By leveraging innovative online programs without sacrificing the personal touch, we ensure that students have the mentorship, resources, and relationships they need to succeed in an evolving educational landscape.

In the end, it’s not just about résumés. It’s about relationships. And at HBCUs, those relationships are changing lives every single day.

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MedCerts & FocusQuest Unite Empowering Minority Students in Health & IT Careers

MedCerts & FocusQuest Unite Empowering Minority Students in Health & IT Careers

LANHAM, Md., Jan. 21, 2025 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) — MedCerts, a nationally recognized leader in online healthcare and IT career training, and FocusQuest LLC, a passionate advocate for student success and educational access, are thrilled to launch a progressive partnership designed to provide minority students with expanded access to high-demand career pathways. In honor of Dr. Martin Luther King Jr.’s legacy, MedCerts is proud to announce this collaboration with FocusQuest, whose partnerships with Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs) have supported more than 80,000 African American students in achieving their goals and advancing educational equity.

FocusQuest will offer minority students – spanning both high school and college levels – flexible allied health and IT training opportunities that lead to nationally recognized certifications. By equipping students with the skills to thrive in rapidly growing industries, this initiative leads the way for rewarding and stable careers while helping to alleviate critical workforce shortages.

“We strive to connect minority students with exceptional health-industry education,” said Sean-Reed McGee, CEO of FocusQuest. “These programs offer life-changing opportunities to pursue careers many students may not have thought possible. Our mission is to empower those who have ambition but need guidance and resources to succeed.”

This collaboration aims to level the playing field for minority students by providing them with the tools and training needed to succeed in today’s competitive job market. FocusQuest’s dedication to supporting HBCUs and MSIs aligns with MedCerts’ mission to make high-quality training accessible and impactful.

“We’re thrilled to provide students with opportunities to pursue in-demand careers, earn certifications that lead to immediate workforce entry, and build a foundation for financial stability—or even support their journey toward earning a degree,” said Robert Hiller, director of academic partnerships at MedCerts.

McGee added, “The right partnerships create unique opportunities, opening new possibilities for students who dream of achieving more. This collaboration is about breaking barriers and unlocking potential.”

More information on the partnership, these online certification programs and how to enroll, can be found here.

About MedCerts

MedCerts – a Stride Inc. company (NYSE: LRN) – is a national online training provider strengthening the workforce through innovative eLearning solutions. Focused on certifications in high-demand areas of Allied healthcare and IT, MedCerts delivers career training through HD-quality video-based instruction, virtual simulations, games, animations, and more. In 2023, MedCerts launched its Partner Solutions brand focused on building partnerships to bridge the gap between our students, job seekers, employers, higher education institutions, and workforce agencies. This new brand includes several partnership models, including recruitment, reseller, content licensing options, and more.

Since 2009, the company has developed over 50 career programs, trained and upskilled more than 100,000 individuals across the country, and partnered with over 400 American Job Centers and more than 1,000 healthcare organizations to build talent pipelines. For more information on MedCerts, visit medcerts.com. For more information on MedCerts Partner Solutions, visit partners.medcerts.com.

About FocusQuest:

FocusQuest is a student acquisition and success partner (SSP) firm exclusively dedicated to assisting HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) and MSIs (Minority Serving Institutions) in developing online educational programs for any of the in-class educational programs offered at the University. Since 2021, the company has developed corporate partnerships to directly build out and educate the next needed workforce, while expanding the convenience of online educational programs and creating student retention plans. For more information, visit www.focusquest.com.

Source: MedCerts

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These Schools Named ‘Fulbright HBCU Institutional Leaders’ by U.S. State Department

These Schools Named 'Fulbright HBCU Institutional Leaders' by U.S. State Department

The U.S. Department of State’s Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs (ECA) named 19 institutions of higher education as Fulbright Historically Black College and University (HBCU) Institutional Leaders for 2023.

Over the last 76 years, the Fulbright Program has given more than 400,000 students, scholars, teachers, artists, and professionals of all backgrounds and fields the opportunity to study, teach, and conduct research in the United States or in one of over 160 partner countries worldwide. Fulbright students and scholars are from or hosted by more than 800 colleges and universities across the United States, and thousands more campuses in over 160 countries.


The HBCU Institutional Leader status recognizes engagement across the Fulbright Program, including the hosting Fulbright Foreign Language Teaching Assistants at HBCUs, Scholars-in-Residence, and other Fulbright Students or Scholars as well as having U.S. students, faculty and staff receive Fulbrights to study, teach or conduct research abroad.

The 19 Fulbright HBCU Institutional Leaders for 2023 include:

  • Alcorn State University  – Mississippi
  • Bennett College – North Carolina
  • Bluefield State University – West Virginia
  • Central State University – Ohio
  • Delaware State University – Delaware
  • Fayetteville State University – North Carolina
  • Florida A&M University – Florida
  • Howard University – Washington, D.C.
  • Jackson State University – Mississippi
  • Jarvis Christian University – Texas
  • The LeMoyne-Owen College – Tennessee
  • Lincoln University of the Commonwealth of Pennsylvania – Pennsylvania
  • Mississippi Valley State University – Mississippi
  • Morgan State University – Maryland
  • North Carolina Central University – North Carolina
  • Spelman College – Georgia
  • Texas Southern University – Texas
  • Tuskegee University – Alabama
  • Virginia State University – Virginia

 

ECA established the Fulbright HBCU Institutional Leaders Initiative to recognize and commend the strong partnership between the Fulbright Program and HBCUs and to encourage all HBCUs to increase their engagement with Fulbright to help their students, faculty and staff to study, teach or conduct research abroad and access valuable international experiences and perspectives.

Fulbright visiting students and scholars contribute to HBCUs’ international networks and create long-term collaborations. Faculty members who have Fulbright U.S. Scholar Awards return from their grant experiences and enrich their HBCU’s campus culture, students and curriculum, and the Fulbright U.S. Student Program provides recent alumni and graduate students with opportunities to gain valuable international perspectives and experiences.

“We are dedicated to ensuring that our faculty and students can pursue international collaboration and enrichment experiences which they bring back to campus for the benefit of our whole community,” Fayetteville State University Chancellor Darrell T. Allison, J.D. stated about his HBCU which was named as a Fulbright HBCU Institutional Leader this year. “This is yet another layer of academic excellence that helps prepare our students for global citizenship, and we are thrilled to contribute to global conversations this way.”

Learn more about the Fulbright Program at https://fulbrightprogram.org, including information about applying as well as Fulbright’s efforts to further DEIA within the program.

 

#HBCUs #EducationExcellence #FulbrightLeaders #GlobalEngagement #CulturalExchange #InternationalEducation #AcademicRecognition #DiversityInEducation #HigherEdAchievements

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HBCUs’ Impact on Diversity in Healthcare Workers

HBCUs’ Impact on Diversity in Healthcare Workers

As a hopeful sign of change, recent trends show that Black students are enrolling in medical school at a record rates, with enrollment rising 21.0% from the 2020-21 school year. The fall 2021 freshman class marks the largest and most diverse first-year medical school class than ever before (AAMC).  

HBCUs have long played a significant role in diversifying the healthcare workforce. Here are few facts about how HBCUs have impacted healthcare worker diversity since their inception.

The HBCU Medical School Effect

“The HBCU Medical School Effect,” coined by several researchers, explains how these institutions have helped increase the rate of Black board members, staff, faculty, and students at medical schools. For example, a study reported that despite HBCUs representing 3% of degree-granting institutions, they represented 17% of schools with the most African American medical students in 2013. Xavier University and Howard University students accounted for 92% of African American medical school graduates that same year (HBCUs and the Production of Doctors). Additionally, HBCUs have produced 70% of all African-American physicians and doctors.

An HBCU previously produced more African American medical school applicants than two PWIs combined.

HBCUs’ impact on America’s diverse workforce can be traced through the successful applicant rates of African American medical students. For example, in 2000, Xavier University’s School of Medicine as an individual HBCU attained more successful African American medical school applicants than two PWIs combined. According to the HBCU Alumnicle, Xavier University gain an applicant pool of 94 students, which was more than Johns Hopkins (20), Harvard (37), and the University of Maryland (24) combined.

In conclusion, the remarkable impact of HBCUs on diversifying the healthcare workforce is undeniable. These institutions have consistently played a pivotal role in shaping a more inclusive medical education landscape. As we celebrate the rising enrollment rates and the growing diversity within medical schools, it’s evident that HBCUs have paved the way for change.

At FocusQuest, we take pride in recognizing and promoting the invaluable contributions of HBCUs to various fields, including healthcare. Through our platform, we strive to empower individuals with information about the exceptional educational opportunities these institutions offer. Together, we can continue to foster positive change, amplify diverse voices, and ensure a brighter future for healthcare professionals of all backgrounds.

#HBCUs #Healthcare #HealthcareDiversity #Empowerment #Inclusivity #EducationOpportunities #FocusQuest #BrighterFuture

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What Does the Tech Industry Value?

What Does the Tech Industry Value?

Six experts weigh in on the ethos driving AI development today — and the challenges we’ll face tomorrow.

Most people try to do the right thing most of the time. But “right” is relative, of course. This has been especially evident in the recent generative AI boom, hailed by some as potentially world saving and decried by others as quite literally apocalyptic.

As the global tech industry rapidly expands the frontiers of these new technologies, we pondered several questions: What values guide tech leaders’ decisions? What ideologies, cultural expectations, and mindsets inform their priorities? And what risks do these ethical frameworks carry with respect to how AI will be developed?

We asked six experts on the history of the tech industry and the ethics of AI to weigh in on these questions. Their responses shed light on the culture and mentality driving decision-making in the tech world — and what the ethos of today’s leaders can tell us about the opportunities and threats we will all face tomorrow.

We have an opportunity to stop the normalization of data plundering and shift the trajectory of AI development away from these exploitative practices. We have the power to say no, and we have the ingenuity to build better alternatives. Data is only destiny if we fail to intervene.

 

#TechIndustryValues #AIdevelopment #TechEthics #AIChallenges #TechLeaders #AIBoom #OpportunitiesAndThreats #TechWorld #EthicalAI #FutureTech

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Top 25 Best HBCUs In the US (2024)

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Historically Black colleges and universities, also known as HBCUs, are schools that were originally established to serve the African American community before the Civil Rights Movement. They are still incredibly important for the African American community today as they are beacons of the ongoing fight for equality and progress.

Currently, there are 102 HBCUs in the United States. We’ve highlighted the top 25 below. The schools continue in the spirit of their original missions, providing academic opportunities for ethnic minorities and underrepresented communities.

 

Top 25 Best HBCUs | 2024

A historically Black, women’s college – the second oldest in the United States –, Spelman College is part of the Atlanta University Center academic consortium. 96% of students attending receive institutional grant aid ($7,376 on average) and 91% will stay on after their first year. With an 11:1 student to faculty ratio, Psychology and Biology are the two most popular majors.

  • Location: Atlanta, GA
  • Institution Type: Private
  • Student Enrollment: 2,417

“Veritas et Utilitas,” or “Excellence in Truth and Service,” is the motto of Howard University. The university boasts an impressive 91% first year retention rate. Offering undergraduate, graduate, professional, and joint degree programs which span over 120 areas of study, the university’s most popular major is Biology, followed by Political Science and Government, Public Relations Advertising and Applied Communication, and Psychology.

  • Location: Washington, DC
  • Institution Type: Private
  • Student Enrollment: 12,065

Also known as Florida A&M or FAMU, the Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University is the only public historically black university in the state. FAMU accepts only 35.7% of students, 37.1% of which will go on to attend in the fall. With an 89% first years retention rate, many students choose to major in Health Services/Allied Health/Health Sciences.

  • Location: Tallahassee, FL
  • Institution Type: Public
  • Student Enrollment: 9,000

Morehouse College is a historically Black men’s college that was founded in 1867. Famous alumni that have attended the college include Martin Luther King Jr, Samuel L. Jackson, and Donn Clendenon. Their motto is Et Facta Est Lux which is Latin for “And there was light.” The college has a 12:1 student to faculty ratio and an 86% first year retention rate.

  • Location: Atlanta, GA
  • Institution Type: Private
  • Student Enrollment: 2,554

Tuskegee University, or TU, is a private historically black university located on a 5,200 acre campus that has been named the Tuskegee Institute National Historic Site. Known as the Golden Tigers, student athletes wear crimson and old gold and are part of the NCAA Division II. Students enjoy a 9:1 student to faculty and the school has a strong 80% first year retention rate.

  • Location: Tuskegee, AL
  • Institution Type: Private
  • Student Enrollment: 2,654

A public historically Black research university, the North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University, sometimes simply called A&T, was established in 1891. It is the largest HBCU in the United States and offers over 50 undergraduate degrees. The most popular majors include Liberal Arts and Sciences, Psychology, and Sport and Fitness Administration.

  • Location: Greensboro, NC
  • Institution Type: Public
  • Student Enrollment: 13,322

Founded as the Slater Industrial Academy in 1892, Winston-Salem State University, WSSU, is a part of the University of North Carolina system. The school’s motto is, “Enter to Learn, Depart to Serve” and the most popular major by far is Registered Nursing. Athletes are known as the Rams and the school newspaper is called The News Argus.

  • Location: Winston-Salem, NC
  • Institution Type: Public
  • Student Enrollment: 5,226

Founded in 1871, Alcorn State University is the nation’s oldest, historically Black, land-grant university and the second oldest public university in Mississippi. Alcorn has earned nationwide recognition not only for being affordable, but also for its excellence in nursing, music, STEM, education, agriculture, and the liberal arts, and it has a 75% first year retention rate.

  • Location: Lorman, MS
  • Institution Type: Public
  • Student Enrollment: 3,074

Delaware State University, often abbreviated to DSU, is a fairly selective school with an acceptance rate of about 59%. The three most popular majors at DSU are Mass Communication/Media Studies, Psychology, and Criminology. The DSU Hornets compete in NCAA Division I athletics and wear red and Columbia blue.

  • Location: Dover, DE
  • Institution Type: Public
  • Student Enrollment: 5,200

Located on the banks of the Hampton River, Hampton University is an HBCU that dates back to 1861. It was founded on a former plantation and was designed to educate former slaves. The school’s motto is “The Standard of Excellence, An Education for Life.” With a 13:1 student to faculty ratio, the university also has an 81% first year retention rate.

  • Location: Hampton, VA
  • Institution Type: Private
  • Student Enrollment: 3,317

Although Dillard University was founded in 1930, its history goes further back. It incorporated institutions that date back to 1868, Straight University and Union Normal School. Dillard University is fairly selective, accepting only 55% of students, and offers almost all students financial assistance to attend.

  • Location: New Orleans, LA
  • Institution Type: Private
  • Student Enrollment: 1,202

Originally known as the National Religious Training School for Chautauqua for the Colored Race, North Carolina Central University dates back to 1909. NCCU has a 15:1 student to faculty ratio, a 74% first year retention rate, and accepts 76.1% of applicants. Criminal Justice/Safety Studies and Business Administration and Management are the two most popular majors.

  • Location: Durham, NC
  • Institution Type: Public
  • Student Enrollment: 7,953

Fisk University’s 40 acre campus is named on the National Register of Historic Places and the school itself dates back to 1866. The school accepts only 61% of applicants, 11.2% of which will attend the following fall. Less than 25% of students attending are from Tennessee – a majority of other students come from Georgia, Illinois, and Texas.

  • Location: Nashville, TN
  • Institution Type: Private
  • Student Enrollment: 942

Xavier University of Louisiana is the only Catholic HBCU. Accepting 95.3% of students, XULA has a student to faculty ratio of 13:1 and a 69% first year retention rate. Biology is the most popular major, followed by Psychology, Public Health, and Chemistry. 126 student athletes wear gold and white and participate in the Red River Athletic Conference.

  • Location: New Orleans, LA
  • Institution Type: Private
  • Student Enrollment: 3,604

Originally known as Claflin College and founded in 1869, Claflin University is the oldest HBCU in the state. The school accepts only 62.8% of students, has a 13:1 student to faculty ratio, and a 71% first year retention rate. Athletes are known as the Panthers and Lady Panthers, and, wearing orange and maroon, participate in baseball, softball, and track and field.

  • Location: Orangeburg, SC
  • Institution Type: Private
  • Student Enrollment: 1,866

One of the largest HBCUs in the United States, Jackson State University dates back to 1877. Their motto is “Challenging Minds, Changing Lives” and famous alumni have included Robert Brazile, Rod Paige, Walter Payton, and Cassandra Wilson. Biology is the most commonly chosen major followed by Interdisciplinary Studies and Social Work.

  • Location: Jackson, MS
  • Institution Type: Public
  • Student Enrollment: 7,080

Founded in 1882 as the Virginia Normal and Collegiate Institute, Virginia State University is a member of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. Accepting 96% of students, VSU also has a 13:1 student to faculty ratio and a 76% first year retention rate. Athletes are known as the Trojans and wear orange and blue.

  • Location: Petersburg, VA
  • Institution Type: Public
  • Student Enrollment: 4,300

Elizabeth City State University is a member-school of the University of North Carolina System and its motto doubles as a great life lesson — “To Live is to Learn.” The college offers 68% of students institutional grants, athletic scholarships, and resources to help them better afford tuition. Common majors on campus include Multi-/Interdisciplinary Studies, Business Administration and Management, and Criminal Justice/Safety Studies.

  • Location: Elizabeth City, NC
  • Institution Type: Public
  • Student Enrollment: 2,054

The largest HBCU in Maryland, Morgan State University got its start as the Centenary Biblical Institute, a seminary. It would be named Morgan College in 1890 and become a university in 1975. “Where History Meets the Future” is the motto of this liberal-arts school. Popular majors include Liberal Arts and Sciences, Business Administration and Management, and Psychology.

  • Location: Baltimore, MD
  • Institution Type: Public
  • Student Enrollment: 8,469

Lincoln University was America’s first degree-granting HBCU. The school receives about 3,500 applications a year and accepts 80% of them. 73% will stay on after their first year at the school. Famous alumni have included US Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, poet Langston Hughes, and former US ambassador to Botswana, Horace Dawson.

  • Location: Lincoln University, PA
  • Institution Type: Public
  • Student Enrollment: 1,916

The most popular majors at Prairie View A&M University are Registered Nursing, Criminal Justice/Safety Studies, and Health and Physical Education/Fitness. Part of the NCAA Division I-FCS, student athletes are known as the Panthers and Lady Panthers, wear purple and gold, and participate in the Southwestern Athletic Conference.

  • Location: Prairie View, TX
  • Institution Type: Public
  • Student Enrollment: 9,400

The first HBCU in the southern United States, Clark Atlanta University was founded in 1865. The school accepts 58.2% of students, has a 70% first year retention rate, and an 18:1 student to faculty ratio. Popular majors among students include Business Administration and Management, Radio, Television, and Digital Communication, and Biology.

  • Location: Atlanta, GA
  • Institution Type: Private
  • Student Enrollment: 4,055

Bowie State University is the oldest HBCU in the state having been founded in 1865. Student athletes are known as the Bulldogs and are cheered on by Butch the Bulldog, their mascot. With over 20 undergraduate majors available, Business Administration and Management is the most commonly chosen.

  • Location: Bowie, MD
  • Institution Type: Public
  • Student Enrollment: 6,308

Fayetteville State University is part of the University of North Carolina system. The school’s motto is Res Non Verba, which is Latin for “Deeds not Words.” Just over 4,000 students apply each year, with 82% receiving acceptance letters. 19% of these students will go on to attend the following fall.

  • Location: Fayetteville, NC
  • Institution Type: Public
  • Student Enrollment: 6,748

Bluefield State University was founded in 1895 and just became a university in 2022 with the introduction of their Master of Business Administration program. The university accepts 97% of undergraduates who apply and has no undergraduate application fee. Elementary Education and Teaching and General Studies are the most common majors.

  • Location: Bluefield, WV
  • Institution Type: Public
  • Student Enrollment: 1,358

Colleges are ranked based on a combination of factors, including graduation rates, campus diversity, endowment per student, and other data as reported via the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES) for the most recently-available enrollment year. Some colleges may have been excluded from rankings based on certain criteria, including specialization and classification. HBCU stands for Historically Black Colleges and Universities. The classification is made by the US Department of Education and HBCUs is included in the IPEDS data. Learn about our full methodology. Learn about our full methodology.

 

#HBCUs #Education #Equality #Top25HBCUs #Ranking #AcademicOpportunities #UnderrepresentedCommunities

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HBCUs are making great progress towards net-zero emissions and promoting diversity in clean energy

HBCUs are making great progress towards net-zero emissions and promoting diversity in clean energy

Historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) are at the forefront of progress in achieving net-zero emissions and promoting diversity in clean energy. The Department of Energy’s Office of Policy reported over 7.8 million energy jobs in the US in 2021. Recognizing the need to support HBCUs in clean energy research, Dominion Energy pledged $25 million, while the Department of Energy (DOE) funded HBCUs for biofuel and solar-plus-storage projects (Photo contributor: Scharfsinn, Shutterstock.com).

To promote diversity, equity, and inclusion in energy research, teams have received awards, and the DOE plans to invest in solar and nuclear energy, energy storage, carbon capture, and efficient use of minerals through funding opportunities.

In a significant development, Howard University became the first HBCU to join the governing alliance board of directors for the National Renewable Energy Laboratory in May 2023. This collaboration creates opportunities for underrepresented students to pursue careers in renewable energy.

The DOE also announced the HBCU Clean Energy Education Prize worth $7.75 million. This initiative encourages HBCU institutions to develop programs that increase K-12 and community college students’ participation in STEM fields related to clean energy.

The goal is to expand clean energy education for younger generations and establish partnerships that lead to clean energy career opportunities. Over 100 HBCU institutions across the US are eligible to compete in one or both prize tracks.

The DOE has formed partnerships with more than 100 HBCUs and minority-serving institutions to address racial disparities in energy systems and research. Their efforts have earned recognition from 15 ABET-accredited HBCU engineering schools as one of the top 5 government agencies supporting HBCUs in 2023.

North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University has established the Center for Electrochemical Dynamics and Reactions on Surfaces (CEDARS) to focus on clean energy initiatives. CEDARS will explore technologies such as hydrogen and oxygen separation from water to create clean hydrogen for energy use.

CEDARS, funded by a four-year $10.35 million DOE grant, represents an interdisciplinary effort. It is the only HBCU among the 43 universities and national laboratories to receive over $400 million in Energy Frontier Research Centers (EFRC) funding.

With the university’s $23 million Steps4Growth clean energy workforce training award and the recent grant, the center aims to create a net-zero emissions economy and promote diversity in clean energy.

The burning of fossil fuels has resulted in rising global temperatures, leading to climate change risks and extreme weather events. The Deep South Center for Environmental Justice (DSCEJ) has been actively engaged in community-focused efforts over the past two years.

DSCEJ empowers communities historically impacted by environmental racism and promotes community-led solutions to address the climate crisis while prioritizing ecological justice. Through philanthropic funding and engagements with federal, state, and local lawmakers, DSCEJ has made significant progress.

Dr. Beverly Wright, the executive director and founder of DSCEJ, was appointed to the White House Environmental Justice Advisory Council by the Biden Administration in 2021. In this role, she provided recommendations on addressing environmental injustice to the White House Environmental Justice Interagency Council (IAC) and the Chair of the White House Council on Environmental Quality (CEQ). This appointment provided a platform to ensure that environmental justice communities’ priorities were addressed in Washington.

The Biden Administration’s commitment to environmental justice began with the announcement of Justice40, ensuring that historically disadvantaged communities receive 40% of federal investments in clean energy solutions.

DSCEJ actively engaged with the administration, including organizing a “toxic tour” throughout Cancer Alley, drawing attention to the devastating effects of living near highly polluting industries. EPA Administrator Michael Regan participated in the immersive tour, and the EPA issued enforcement actions to address air pollution, unsafe drinking water, and other issues.

In September 2022, the EPA announced the establishment of the Office of Environmental Justice and External Civil Rights. This office aims to advance environmental justice by enforcing civil rights laws in overburdened communities and providing new grants and technical assistance.

HBCUs are playing a crucial role in driving progress towards net-zero emissions and advocating for diversity in clean energy. With continued support and collaboration, these institutions are paving the way for a more sustainable and equitable future.

 

#HBCUs #CleanEnergy #NetZeroEmissions #DiversityInEnergy #EnvironmentalJustice #RenewableEnergy #STEMEducation #ClimateAction #SustainableFuture #EnergyResearch #EquityInEnergy #CleanEnergyInitiatives #CommunityEmpowerment #EnvironmentalEquity #ClimateJustice #HBCUPride #CleanEnergyLeadership

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