Raising the bar and celebrating excellence during HBCU Week

Established in 1980 by President Jimmy Carter, HBCU Week underscores the vital role these institutions play in providing high-quality education and fostering professional growth for their scholars. HBCU Week is observed during the second week of September and celebrates the impactful legacy and ongoing contributions of HBCUs.

Contrary to what many might assume because I am a Black woman, I did not grow up with a strong awareness of HBCUs. In fact, my school counselors at my predominately white high school only ever mentioned three HBCU institutions— Howard University, Morehouse College and Spellman College. These three are well-known, but they represent just a fraction of the rich and impactful history that HBCUs have in shaping our country. My first encounter with HBCUs came from my high school best friend who chose to attend Winston-Salem University. It was at that point that I researched and learned of the legacy and importance of HBCUs and instantly regretted my choice to attend a Predominantly White Institution.

Years later, my interest came full circle when I became the inaugural Sophomore Experience Director in the School of General Studies at Virginia Union University (VUU), the 5th oldest HBCU in the country. During my tenure at VUU, I experienced firsthand the pride, passion and seriousness that emanates from the walls of these institutions. The deep sense of community, the cultural heritage and the dedication to academic excellence were tangible in a way that brought significance to the “struggle turned into joy” because this institution signified the opportunity to obtain an education. Now, I’m a mother to junior and freshman students who both chose HBCUs to further their education. They are now part of the continued heritage of inclusive educational excellence.

HBCUs are a cornerstone for our Nation’s higher education institutions and workforce training. 12 of these institutions are community colleges offering workforce training and development. By offering specialized training in in-demand industries like education and STEM fields (science, technology, engineering and mathematics), HBCUs equip students with the skills needed to succeed in high-demand professions.

107 institutions were founded in the 19th and 20th centuries to provide educational opportunities for Black Americans who were systematically excluded from attending white institutions due to segregation. HBCUs are vital to the U.S. as they have not only educated generations of Black professionals but also contribute to social and economic justice. Today over 25% of HBCUs are comprised of international and non-Black students bringing forth a diverse and rich learning community. In addition, HBCUs continue to play a significant role in shaping leaders, particularly Black women, who are now the most educated demographic group in the U.S.

The workforce impact of HBCUs is significant in preparing a diverse workforce; 40% of Black engineers, 40% of Black members of Congress, 50% of Black lawyers, 50% of all Black teachers, 70% of Black doctors and 80% of Black judges; 40% of healthcare professionals in America all graduated from HBCUs.

Currently, the Labor Department is collaborating with over 25% of HBCUs to increase their participation in federal funding opportunities, apprenticeship and workforce development programs. We made significant investments and launched strategic initiatives aimed at benefiting HBCU students, graduates and institutions with funding allocations varying year by year.

Our commitment at the Department of Labor is to continue tapping into the diverse talents of all workers and breaking down the barriers that have excluded many from good jobs for far too long.

Alaysia Black-Hacket is the Chief Diversity Equity Officer for the U.S. Department of Labor.