Championing HBCUs: A Beacon of Diversity in Changing Higher Education

Panelists and HBCU professors pose at Walls’ inaugural HBCU summit – photo courtesy of LaToya Grant 

In a nation where the landscape of higher education is shifting—following the recent removal of DEI initiatives and the 2023 Supreme Court ruling against affirmative action—Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) stand as beacons of opportunity and inclusivity. As such, Walls held its 6th annual HBCU Summit and College fair on Mar. 27 

Logan Thompson ('25) President of the Black Student Union, explained, “A lot of students at Walls haven’t had direct exposure to HBCUs beyond what they hear in passing, and this fair gives them a real chance to explore their options and connect with schools.”

HBCUs fall under the threshold of institutions that have become vulnerable following the removal of DEI-focused programs, which has put the federal funding of over 100 schools and countless programs at risk. In light of this, it is especially crucial to acknowledge the substantial benefits that HBCUs have made to the black community. 

Thompson explained how HBCUs “provide a unique cultural experience, strong alumni networks, and a sense of belonging that can be hard to find at predominantly white institutions.” 

Thompson also noted the significance of HBCUs' origins, stating that “HBCUs were built to uplift Black students and create opportunities that didn’t exist for us elsewhere.”

Ms. LaToya Grant, assistant principal and co-creator of the event alongside Mr. Jones shared that their motivation for creating the event was driven by students’ desire to “hear more about the experience of attending an HBCU aside from just the admissions criteria. They wanted firsthand experience from students and alumni that attended these schools.”

As an alumna of Florida A&M University, a renowned HBCU, Ms. Grant shared how HBCUs offer “a rich legacy that everyone should experience at some point in their lives.”

She continues on to say “It’s important that students of all backgrounds know that there are spaces and institutions where they can feel and be safe, where they are affirmed, and where they are celebrated.”

Since its creation in 2016, the event has been an incredible opportunity to learn about colleges, programs, and difficult-to-obtain scholarships. It is essential to continue to support and sustain the distinctive community that has thrived since 1837, when the Cheyney University of Pennsylvania became the nation's first HBCU. 

After attending a college fair, Ms. Grant stated, “Students are able to see which schools hold their initial interest, then research them more, on their own and determine if they feel that any schools would align with their post-secondary education goals."  

Vice President of the Black Student Union, Kwabena Tyus (‘25) said that he wishes “that there had been an HBCU fair last year. It would have been great to talk to more colleges and it would have made my admissions process a lot easier.” 

Reflecting on his difficulties during his college application process, Tyus acknowledges that “Having a relationship and introducing myself to somebody in admissions would have eliminated so much stress.” He advises underclassmen to “Build those connections now”. 

“Senior year is already so stressful with applications, essays, and deadlines, so having more information earlier would have made the process smoother,” Thompson adds. 

The recent HBCU summit, along with upcoming events, provides unique opportunities to explore the value and significance of pursuing an HBCU education and to connect with institutions committed to your success, to launch your college search.