On Feb. 5, ETHS held its annual HBCU Day, involving panel discussions, presentations and a scholarship fair. These activities were designed to expose students to a wide range of voices and perspectives.
HBCUs, or Historically Black Colleges and Universities, are higher education institutions that were originally established to educate Black Americans during legally enforced segregation. Today, there are a variety of public and private and four-year and two-year HBCUs throughout the country.
“I attended HBCU Day because it was a great opportunity to learn about not only the benefits of attending an HBCU, but the culture that comes along with it,” said Aleah Stone, a junior. “I’ve always wanted to attend an HBCU, so I’ve attended many events that discuss HBCUs [to learn more].”
HBCUs are open to all students regardless of race, encouraging diversity and academic excellence for everyone. For many students, these schools create a safe space for connection and belonging. Many prominent leaders, such as Thurgood Marshall and Kamala Harris, are graduates of HBCUs.
Principal Dr. Quiana McNeal believes that HBCU Day is really important for students.
“Students can learn about institutions that were created for them by them,” said McNeal. “They can explore the options that are available to continue their education at schools that not only value but celebrate their history and legacy.”
Students who attended HBCU Day echoed this perspective, pointing out the community and leadership opportunities HBCUs provide.
“Students should consider attending an HBCU because Black excellence is centered in both academics and campus culture there,” said senior Devon Cravens. “I believe that they create an environment where students can feel understood, supported and challenged to grow.”
On HBCU Day, students learned about the historical foundation of HBCUs and heard personal stories from both alumni and current students. The program also featured an HBCU Spring Break Tour panel. At the panel, alumni answered student questions about the HBCU experience. For many, the college and scholarship fair during lunch was a highlight; students were offered the opportunity to directly connect with schools.
English teacher Dr. Dillin Randolph explored the history of HBCUs, exploring connections to the civil rights movement and iconic alumni.
“I think that learning about HBCUs challenges the narrow idea that Ivy League schools and [Predominantly White Institutions] are the only institutions with prestige and that can lead to post-graduate success,” said Randolph. “I think HBCUs help students see environments where culture, belonging, identity and academic excellence coexist rather than compete.”
Students who attended HBCU Day heard from alumni of HBCUs in order to get an inside perspective about these schools.
“My experience at CAU gave me more than a degree; it gave me confidence and is where I finally found my voice,” said Vernessa Stepney, Dean of Student Safety, Success and Wellbeing. Stepney is an alumna of Clark Atlanta University (CAU), an HBCU.
“As students look toward their future, they shouldn’t just look for a school,” said Stepney. “They should look for a family and a place that will protect their spirit while growing their mind.”
HBCU Day provided many students with new perspectives and opportunities to reflect as they make plans for after high school.
“Seeing themselves reflected in spaces of excellence changes how students imagine their futures,” said Randolph. “HBCUs remind us that academic rigor, cultural pride and community can exist together.”
