Are HBCUs Being Forgotten? How Black College Alumni Can Help!

How HBCU degrees can create the next generation of excellence

Up today The Morning HustleWe addressed a new United Negro College Fund study that spoke to the lack of awareness of Black colleges by high school students. The talk covers many topics, including the ways in which alumni are responsible for increasing HBCU visibility. The legacy of historically black colleges and universities is more than history—it's millions of alumni who show up, build community, and open doors for the next class. For HBCU grads, passing the torch means doing more than repeating your alma mater at Homecoming. It's about reaching back and breaking down barriers so others can taste the HBCU experience.

Wondering how to put your school in the spotlight for future students? Start with these essentials:

1. Be a Walking Billboard

Wear your HBCU gear everywhere – from the gym to your workplace. When people ask, share what your school means to you. Your story can spark a dream in the heart of a future student.

2. Digital mentorship

Your social feeds are your recruiting toolkit. Post throwback photos of the campus, career gains linked to your HBCU, and use admissions hashtags to give advice. Every post helps shift the story and keeps Black excellence in the spotlight.

3. Adopt a local high school

Connect with advisors or host “HBCU 101” talks at schools in your area. Answer questions about campus life, financial aid, or scholarships – real talk helps high schoolers imagine the journey.

4. Host Student Send-Offs

Team up with alumni chapters to honor incoming students. Send-off events give families a support system and let students know their village is behind them.

5. Champion Scholarships

Post about scholarships, make small donations, and hold FAFSA workshops. Sometimes the biggest barrier is financial – removing that barrier is real change.

Your commitment makes Black excellence unstoppable. Show up, speak out, and light the way for the next generation.