Spelman College president Dr. Helene Gayle will not return after taking a leave of absence and is stepping down permanently, the college announced on Thursday, Nov. 21, 2024. The institution did not disclose the reasons for her initial leave or her decision to resign, according to The Associated Press. In a statement, Gayle expressed gratitude for the opportunity to lead Spelman. “I thank the larger Spelman community for this magnificent opportunity to serve as president. I have thoroughly enjoyed interacting with the outstanding students and future world leaders who have chosen to attend Spelman College,” Gayle said in a statement, per the AP. “I look forward to my next chapter.” As AFROTECH™ previously reported, Gayle became president in 2022, succeeding Mary Schmidt Campbell. After her leave of absence was announced in October 2024, Rosalind “Roz” Brewer assumed the role of interim president. The Spelman Board of Trustees said they are in the process of selecting a new president,...

A bachelor’s degree in artificial intelligence will be taught at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University. The Triad Business Journal reports this is the only AI degree program at the Historically Black College and University (HBCU), and it has been approved by the UNC System Board of Governors. North Carolina A&T, the largest HBCU in the world, plans to enroll the first cohort of students in the fall of 2025. The program will be available both on-campus and online, as reported by WFMY-2 News. “Artificial intelligence and machine learning are increasingly part of everyday life with the potential for profound and far-reaching impact on virtually every facet of society,” said Chancellor James Martin II, according to The Triad Business Journal. “Our new bachelor’s degree will prepare students for immediate impact, especially in the critical area of human interaction with AI.” Students planning to enroll can expect the degree to launch with concentrations in advanced...

The South and Northeast are h ome to a significant number of HBCUs . Still, Ohio houses Wilberforce, an HBCU that was erected in 1856 and 1951. The midwestern university offers teacher training and classical education. Once one university, the second school broke off and became its own official school in 1965. Both are still standing thanks to the African Methodist Episcopal (AME) church and the Thurgood Marshall Fund . Find out more about the HBCU in Ohio. The First HBCU In Ohio: Wilberforce University Founded by the Cincinnati Chapter of the Methodist Episcopal and African Methodist Episcopal churches, Wilberforce University opened its doors in 1856. It is the oldest private HBCU in the United Stated that remains under the direction of African Americans. Named after William Wilberforce, a British abolitionist, the university carries an esteem of freedom and opportunity. Programs in teacher training and classical education are afforded to Black students at a tuition of less than...

Historically Black Colleges and Universities ( HBCUs ) have long played a vital role in training and empowering Black medical professionals. Offering a strong academic foundation, supportive environments, and access to hands-on experience, HBCU medical schools continue to be instrumental in bridging healthcare disparities and diversifying the medical field. This article highlights some of the top HBCU medical schools in the country that are renowned for their academic excellence, resources, and commitment to serving underserved communities. Howard University College Of Medicine Located in Washington, D.C., Howard University College of Medicine is one of the most prestigious HBCU medical schools. Founded in 1868, it has a longstanding tradition of training African American physicians, researchers, and other healthcare professionals. The school offers programs in medicine, surgery, and research, with a strong focus on treating underserved communities. Howard is known for producing...

At the center of the District of Columbia-Maryland-Virginia (DMV) area lies Maryland, the Free State. A symbol of political freedom and four HBCUs, all of them were established during or before the year 1900. Located in Baltimore, Bowie and Salisbury, these Maryland-based universities, like many of their counterparts, are publicly supported. They have a combined annual economic impact of over $1 billion. Together, they’ve also created over 10,000 jobs for the areas local to the institutions. The history of historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) have taught us that creating opportunities and environments that champion higher education for Black students is not only fruitful for admitted youth but for surrounding communities. Here are the four HBCUs in Maryland. Bowie State University Bowie State University (BSU), named after its home city, was the first HBCU in Maryland (1865). Located in Prince George’s County, BSU is in the northeastern region of the state. The...

Historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) have long served Black students, non-Black students of color and more recently white students. Of their graduates, several alumni have gone on to achieve incredible careers, ranging from Oprah Winfrey and Samuel L. Jackson to Vice President Kamala Harris . HBCUs have produced some of the world’s greatest speakers, artists and businesspeople. It’s no wonder why rankings exist among the 101 institutions that provide higher education to Black students. From having the most successful alumni to being the hardest HBCU to get into, here are our HBCU rankings. The Highest HBCU Rankings In The Country Each of the HBCUs mentioned in this ranking system has their own specialty and draw for students. Between the universities, each one of them garners funding, which contributes to university/college performance academically and athletically. At eighth place is Xavier University known for being a leader in STEM and health sciences. North...

Historically Black Colleges and Universities ( HBCUs ) have played a pivotal role in educating African American students and fostering leadership within the legal profession. HBCU law schools continue to produce top-tier legal professionals, activists, and judges who advocate for justice and equality. For aspiring attorneys looking for a legal education that combines academic rigor with a focus on social justice and community impact, these HBCU law schools stand out as some of the best in the country. 1. Howard University School Of Law Located in Washington, D.C., Howard University School of Law is the most renowned HBCU law school in the nation. Established in 1869, it has a long history of producing influential leaders, including Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall and many civil rights attorneys. Howard’s law program is known for its focus on social justice, civil rights, and its commitment to diversifying the legal profession. With its location in the nation’s capital,...

For the first time, an undergraduate HBCU will be making its way to California. The Austin American-Statesman reports, Huston-Tillotson University has been approved to provide remote coursework to California students starting in January 2025. The Austin, TX-based Historically Black College and University (HBCU) also plans to open a physical campus by August 2025 — pending approval from several California agencies — in partnership with San Diego Unified School District and National College Resources Foundation. Huston-Tillotson University President Melva Wallace states that the school was approached by the foundation and the objective is to create more inclusive career pipelines. “If it’s working for the corporate and workforce, why don’t we take the lead on building the pipeline for workforce by training more California students to enter into the workforce here?” Wallace told the outlet. “Being the first undergraduate HBCU in California, it’s just an amazing thing.” Wallace also...

DIAGEO is opening its pocketbooks to support innovation at HBCUs. In celebration of homecoming week, the company hosted several events to honor the traditions that thrive across Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). This includes its Alumni Bison Ball and “Off The Yard” tailgate festival held Oct. 18 and Oct. 19 at Howard University as well as a football classic in Alabama on Oct. 25 and another one in Louisiana on Nov. 30, a press release mentions. Photo Credit: DIAGEO “At DIAGEO, we believe a business that includes everyone is a better business. Our business is centered around celebrations, culture and memorable moments,”  Danielle Robinson, Ph.D., director of community initiatives and partnerships at DIAGEO, told AFROTECH™ in an email interview. “HBCU Homecoming and Classic season represents one of those vibrant memorable moments. As alumni from these respected institutions continue to make meaningful impact in society and the business world, we are thrilled to...

The HBCU Esports League is an exciting platform that showcases the talent of gamers from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) . This league not only celebrates the gaming prowess of HBCU students but also serves as a gateway for them to access opportunities in the rapidly growing esports industry. In 2024, several major companies have stepped up to support the league, providing sponsorship that fosters growth, education, and engagement in the gaming community. Verizon Verizon continues to be a key supporter of the HBCU Esports League in 2024. The telecommunications giant plays a pivotal role in providing cutting-edge technology and connectivity, helping to ensure that HBCU students have the infrastructure needed to compete at the highest level. Beyond sponsorship, Verizon is also involved in promoting educational initiatives, offering workshops and networking opportunities to help students explore careers in esports, technology, and communications. Coca-Cola...

Rosalind “Roz” Brewer is stepping into a new role. Brewer is the former chief operating officer of Starbucks and CEO of Sam’s Club. As AFROTECH™ previously reported, Brewer had also served as the previous CEO of Walgreens Boots Alliance. She assumed the position in 2021, making history as the only Black woman in the S&P 500 to hold a C-suite title. In addition, she was the third Black woman to lead a Fortune 500 company. After three years, Brewer stepped down from the role in 2023, AFROTECH™ also reported. Today, she continues to serve on the boards of United Airlines, the Smithsonian’s National Museum of African American History and Culture, and the Black Economic Alliance. Now, Brewer will step in as the interim president of Spelman College, her alma mater, according to ABC News. Brewer maintained a longstanding connection and involvement with the school, having served 12 years on its board prior to her new role. Brewer’s appointment follows Dr. Helene D. Gayle’s personal leave of...

Attending an HBCU helped Lance Gross realize his dreams of becoming an actor. The Oakland, CA, native had envisioned he would establish a career in entertainment. However, his parents initially had other aspirations, encouraging him to pursue finance and business . “I went against the grain. I like to take a chance on myself. I always bet on myself,” Gross told AFROTECH™ on Saturday, Oct. 18, at the Off The Yard Festival at The Bullpen in Washington, DC. There he served as an event partner for the spirit company DIAGEO, celebrating Howard University’s 100th anniversary and sharing in its mission to elevate HBCUs. “I had to do what I loved and what I loved was entertainment. And I’m a creative person, and I feel like I’m not living unless I’m creating. For me, it was a no-brainer. Now, I had some convincing to do with my parents, and also I was on a full track and field scholarship, so I had to convince my coach as well. But, I’m from Oakland, CA, so I’m gonna make it work. We know...

Southern University’s College of Nursing and Allied Health is breaking barriers and making history in remarkable ways. According to WBRZ-2 News, the Baton Rouge, LA-based Historically Black College and University has achieved a significant milestone by welcoming the largest cohort of Black male nursing students in its history — 33 individuals. “The diversity of males in healthcare is very important for us,” said nursing student James Rodgers. “So to be a part of something like this is legendary for us.” Student Ray Washington added, “I think now other males, younger black males, older males having the opportunity to see what we’re doing here is only going to ignite a fire in them and say we have the opportunity to decide our own story and not allow the world to make that decision for us.” The students are determined to transform the face of healthcare while challenging stereotypes . Their commitment goes beyond caring for their peers; they aspire to make a lasting impact on their...

A Black woman is leading the establishment of New York City, NY ‘s first HBCU Early College Prep High School, a groundbreaking initiative developed in partnership with the historically Black college from which she graduated. Dr. Asya Johnson, chancellor’s master principal of NYC Public Schools, is a passionate advocate for racial justice and educational equity with over 16 years of educational experience. A proud Delaware State University alumna , she stated that the prep high school aims to “bridge the accelerated academics of a rich tradition of HBCU experience,” Waymaker Journal reported . She is now paving the way for a new generation to follow in her footsteps. The HBCU Early College Prep High School will open in Southeast Queens in September 2025, fast-tracking NYC Public School students’ path to college. They will be able to start receiving college credits as early as ninth grade and graduate high school with a diploma, a tuition-free associate’s degree, and guaranteed...

Cheyney University of Pennsylvania became the first HBCU to open in 1837. Like its successors, Hampton, Howard and Spelman , these institutions were developed to provide access to higher education for Black students. Up until then, Black students were either excluded from the higher education experience by predominantly white institutions or one of the few that were admitted. In the 1970s, HBCUs began to see an influx of non-Black students pursuing admission. The percentage of non-Black students has reached close to 30% at some HBCUs with the highest being 90% at the Bluefield Colored Institute . White students have long attended HBCUs and continue to enroll today, yet the history of higher education still begs the question: Can white people go to HBCUs? The History of the HBCU Due to racial discrimination, Black people were largely prevented from pursuing higher education. The development of HBCUs has served the Black community, and continues to, through education and philanthropy....