President Biden issues Executive Order to help strengthen HBCUs

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White House – In a press release issued by the White House, President Biden announced his Executive Order to advance educational equity, excellence, and economic opportunity for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

“HBCUs have a proud history and legacy of achievement.  In the face of discrimination against Black Americans by many institutions of higher education, HBCUs created pathways to opportunity and educational excellence for Black students throughout our Nation.,” the release read.

“That legacy continues.  Today, more than 100 HBCUs, located in 19 States, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. Virgin Islands, serve nearly 300,000 students annually.  HBCUs vary in size and academic focus and serve a range of diverse students and communities in urban, rural, and suburban settings.”

Breaking down barriers for HBCU growth

One of the main goals of President Biden’s initiative is to break down barriers and expand pathways for HBCUs to access Federal funding and programs, particularly in areas of research and development, innovation, and financial and other support to students.

“HBCUs play a vital role in providing educational opportunities, scholarly growth, and a sense of community for students. HBCU graduates are barrier-breaking public servants, scientists, artists, lawyers, engineers, educators, business owners, and leaders,” the release continued.

“For generations, HBCUs have been advancing intergenerational economic mobility for Black families and communities, developing vital academic research, and making our country more prosperous and equitable.  HBCUs are proven means of advancement for people of all ethnic, racial, and economic backgrounds, especially Black Americans. HBCUs produce nearly 20 percent of all Black college graduates and 25 percent of Black graduates who earn degrees in the disciplines of science, technology, engineering, and math.”

To read the press release in depth, click here.