TONYA CALHOUN, PHD
HBCU GRAD & BLOGGER
HBCU
noun: HBCU; plural noun: HBCUs
Historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) are institutions of higher education in the United States that were established before the Civil Rights Act of 1964, with the intention of primarily serving and educating the African-American community.
1980s: abbreviation of historically black college or university became 'HBCU'.
“We all know that there are many different kinds of colleges and universities across our nation. We have schools focused on liberal arts, agriculture and technology, engineering, and a host of other specializations. However, education has not always been as accessible and diverse as it is today. At one point in our history, minorities struggled to receive their education opportunities, which, as a result gave birth to alternative methods of learning. One such alternative became what we now know today as an HBCU.” -BET Next Level
“Everyone deserves access to a college education that prepares them for success. That’s the belief shared by the more than 100 historically black colleges and universities in the U.S., a belief you’ll feel in the air when you visit or attend an HBCU. For most of America’s history, HBCUs have played a critical role in ensuring that African Americans—and students of all races—receive a quality education.
You can feel confident recommending a historically black college or university to students who are dreaming of attaining a college degree. For more than 150 years, HBCUs have successfully educated students of color. Controlled comparisons prove that HBCUs outperform non-HBCU institutions in retaining and graduating black students, after accounting for the socioeconomic status and academic preparation of enrolled students.” -UNCF
HBCU Matters serves as a platform of resources for students and parents who are interested in understanding more about the matters and culture of Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs). Within this website, you will find articles that serve to answer frequently asked questions about HBCUs; a list of HBCUs by state; and all types of helpful resources related to HBCU life. It is our goal to provide prospective HBCU students with as much information to prepare them for [HBCU] college success.
*Dr. Tonya Howard Calhoun is a Spelman College Alumna, and a Social Change Agent in the Atlanta, Georgia surrounding areas. She is the owner of Altruistically Yours, LLC, a business that specializes in creating stellar volunteer programs (and experiences) for nonprofit organizations. Tonya serves on numerous Boards in the metro-Atlanta area; and is an active member of the Junior League of Atlanta and Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated. She is passionate about thriving nonprofit organizations, and the continual survival of HBCUs. Tonya is married to Morehouse College Alumnus, Alzay Calhoun.
