I really can't understand why there is a general perception that HBCUs will soon be disappearing.
In fact, there seems to be a wide misunderstanding about HBCUs in general - that they are poor, struggling schools that aren't well managed, and that the most talented students are being siphoned off to more prestigious PWCs.
The truth is, HBCUs are not going anywhere anytime soon; as a matter of fact, I believe that we need and respect them now more than ever. I actually see that many parents and students want to be educated in an environment of excellence, and not a campus where anything goes, which describes many more contemporary universities.
The traditions and values that HBCUs are fighting to uphold are more necessary now than ever before. Ironically enough, many majority high schools and colleges are just beginning to rediscover "character education" and are trying (usually unsuccessfully) to implement those types of programs.
Truthfully, HBCUs have always had the edge when it comes to producing motivation, integrity, courage, and respect. The finest HBCUs carry a reputation for this which is known worldwide.
Many of today's Black leaders in business and government are the product of HBCUs, and clearly recognize their value and relevance. The administrations of these colleges, which are so often criticized for bureaucracy, are actually dedicated professionals achieving stunning progress in the face of budget cuts, competition, rising costs, brain drain, and a host of other problems that complicate their jobs.
Most HBCUs aren't poor either - in fact, the wealthiest HBCUs (Howard, Hampton, and Spelman) have endowments that put other similarly-sized colleges to shame. The conservative fiscal management style of many HBCU presidents allowed their institutions to significantly grow their endowment funds, while many larger colleges were spending on trendy programs and campus luxuries.
In short, not only are HBCUs not in danger of disappearing, they are positioning themselves for serious growth and serious results in the 21st century.
Posted By: Jon C.
Wednesday, April 18th 2007 at 7:31AM
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