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Vice President Harris Shines a Light on HBCUs as Historic Nominee

In a significant moment for historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), Vice President Kamala Harris has become the first major political party presidential nominee who is also an alumna of one of these institutions. This milestone brings heightened attention to the vital role HBCUs play in the educational landscape during a pivotal era for racial equality.

Harris, who graduated from Howard University in 1986 with a degree in political science and economics, accepted the Democratic nomination during the Democratic National Convention held in Chicago.

This achievement has sparked a profound sense of pride among those affiliated with HBCUs. Rep. Joyce Beatty (D-Ohio), a graduate of Central State University, emphasized the significance of Harris’s nomination, highlighting that it symbolizes the leadership of HBCU graduates in the pursuit of justice and equality. “She is a vanguard for women and HBCU graduates everywhere,” Beatty remarked.

Established in the 19th century, HBCUs were designed to provide higher education opportunities for Black Americans, a necessity at a time when many existing institutions excluded them. Currently, 107 HBCUs across the country cater to over 228,000 students, contributing nearly 20 percent of all Black college graduates in the United States, according to the Department of Labor.

Among the many influential figures who have emerged from HBCUs is the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr., a Morehouse College alumnus, whose legacy continues to resonate in the fight for civil rights.

Adrienne Jones, a political science professor at Morehouse College, commented on the significance of Harris being the first Black woman nominee from a major party, noting that HBCUs foster environments that support Black students in a society where such support is often lacking. “The environments are very good for Black people,” she stated, emphasizing their role in nurturing talent and leadership.

Harris’s academic journey also distinguishes her from many presidential candidates, who typically emerge from Ivy League backgrounds. After completing her undergraduate studies, she went on to earn her law degree from the University of California Hastings College of the Law.

Elsie Scott, the director of Howard’s Ronald W. Walters Leadership and Public Policy Center, reflected on the collective celebration among HBCUs. “This is something for all of us,” she said, affirming the pride felt by those in the HBCU community. Scott expressed hope that Harris’s trajectory would inspire current students to believe that they too can achieve greatness. “Students will say, if she can do it, I can do it,” she remarked.

Scott also highlighted the necessity of raising awareness about the importance of HBCUs at a time when discussions about racial issues in education are increasingly contentious. With funding for HBCUs threatened in some states, she noted a lack of understanding about the cultural significance these institutions offer. “Some people have said that it’s throwing away money… but they don’t understand the cultural aspect of going to an HBCU,” she explained.

Despite a growing interest in HBCUs driven by recent racial justice movements, a significant gap persists in funding compared to predominantly white institutions. Last year, federal officials revealed that 16 states had underfunded HBCUs by a staggering $12 billion collectively.

Financial snapshots reveal that predominantly white public schools typically boast endowments three times larger than those of public HBCUs, and seven times larger than private HBCUs, according to a report by the Century Foundation.

Scott’s experience underscores the importance of HBCUs in providing a nurturing community. Having attended HBCUs for her bachelor’s and doctorate degrees, while receiving her master’s from a predominantly white institution, she noticed the cultural disconnect for many Black students in such environments. “There’s still a need for HBCUs because they provide that community,” she stated.

Though Harris did not specifically mention her time at Howard in her acceptance speech, she shared a personal story that shaped her decision to become a lawyer, reflecting on her determination to protect vulnerable individuals.

During the presidential race, former President Donald Trump also pointed to his administration’s efforts to support HBCUs, claiming to have increased funding. He signed the FUTURE Act, which allocated $225 million annually to minority-serving institutions, including $85 million specifically designated for HBCUs. Conversely, the Biden-Harris administration has provided HBCUs with $16 billion since taking office.

Leaders from HBCUs are optimistic that Harris’s nomination will lead to increased visibility and interest in their institutions. Jarvis Hall, an associate professor of political science at North Carolina Central University, emphasized the broader implications of HBCU success stories. “HBCUs can produce people who can do anything,” he stated, underscoring the notion that these institutions are inclusive and supportive of all students, not just those from historically marginalized backgrounds.

Source
thehill.com