Why Historically Black Colleges and Universities are Worth Fighting for

On this weeks show, we are going to discuss the relevance of the Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Back when Cheyney was established in 1837, the purpose of that school and the schools to follow were to educate what were then the African slaves and the newly freed slaves. It was to teach them trades in agriculture, teaching and nursing to name a few. Soon to follow were schools that focused on medicine and the law. HBCU’s have produced American historical giants such as Martin Luther King, Jr., Thurgood Marshall, George Washington Carver, Althea Gibson and Jerry Rice. Well in today’s America, HBCU’s are under attack. There has a been a push over the last 20+ years to downsize, merge or eliminate many of these institutions. The argument has been that there isn’t the need for them anymore. No longer are the “major” universities segregated, they are doing a “better” job of education black students and the pay of HBCU graduates has declined since the 70‘s. There are many more black students attending these universities, as well as online schools and storefront schools such as the University of Phoenix. Many of these schools are largely subsidized by state and federal funds, which opens the door for even more scrutiny. Meanwhile, the top 8 schools producing black students who go on to get their PHD’s are HBCU’s. There are plenty of successful stories through these institutions. Ultimately it comes down to money. The endowments of these schools pale in comparison to the many predominantly white institutions. Miguel Lloyd (Norfolk State) our host, is going to try and get all of this in, during our hour. In the meantime, The Super Producer, Nikkia Ganey (FAMU) will keep us in line and bring us hot topics, Elton Gumbel (FAMU) will have sports and Keith Reed (Coppin St.) will have our financial news. Join us this Wednesday for the conversation.