Cortney Woodruff’s Post

Sharing some compelling key points from a recent article on the significant contributions HBCUs are making, transforming lives and trajectories for students: ▪️ Black students who enroll in Historically Black Colleges or Universities increase their probability of earning a college degree by 30% compared to other Black students with similar characteristics, ▪️ Black HBCU students were more likely than their counterparts to pursue high-paying majors like those in science, technology, engineering and math fields ▪️ The incomes of Black students who enrolled in HBCUs were also 5% higher by the time they were 30 than those of their non-HBCU counterparts, ▪️ Despite HBCUs making up just 3% of colleges in the U.S, ~ 27% of the country’s Black STEM undergraduates attend HBCUs..., ▪️ HBCUs reduce the psychological burden of pursuing a college degree HBCU advocates what are your thoughts? Read more here: https://lnkd.in/eZnAFVtP #highered #hbcu #blackstudents #thoughtleadership

Dr. Simama's opinion piece provides a very strong argument on behalf of HBCUs. The need for equitable funding is extremely important because it will determine how these institutions will not only survive but thrive in the years to come. Having consulted with some of these colleges and universities, I know first-hand that they play a pivotal role for black students who may not have the same opportunity elsewhere. Although I did not attend a minority serving institution during my undergraduate or graduate studies, I know the value of their contributions to those who do attend them. Both faculty and staff are committed to nurturing their students which is definitely something that predominantly white institutions have a very difficult time in doing. Research has always shown that having a welcoming campus climate is one of the key variables for student success (i.e. persistence and degree completion). I believe the funding challenges that HBCUs have experienced for decades can be resolved if we elect someone who knows their value.

**Be Careful What You Ask For** In our professional journeys, it’s crucial to reflect on the intentions behind our requests. This powerful reminder highlights how what we think we want can lead to unexpected outcomes. As we navigate our careers, let’s stay mindful of our goals and the broader implications of our aspirations. Sometimes, the pursuit of what we desire can take us down paths we didn’t foresee. Have you ever experienced a situation where your request led to surprising consequences? Share your thoughts and insights in the comments! #Mindfulness #CareerGrowth #Intentions #ProfessionalDevelopment

🚨 M.I.T. Faces a 36% Drop in Diversity, Post-Affirmative Action, HBCUs Applications increase by up to 30-40% in the last year🌟 The recent data from M.I.T.'s incoming class of 2028 is a stark reminder of the far-reaching implications of the Supreme Court's decision to ban affirmative action. 📉 A Sharp Decline in Diversity: Black Student Enrollment: Dropped from 15% to just 5% Hispanic & Latino Enrollment: Declined from 16% to 11% Asian American Enrollment: Rose dramatically from 40% to 47%, now representing nearly half the class This is the first class admitted without race-conscious admissions, and the impact is clear—diversity has taken a significant hit. While M.I.T.'s diversity has taken a significant hit, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) across the nation are experiencing a surge in both applications and enrollment. These institutions, such as Howard University, Morgan State University, Coppin State University, and Florida A&M University (FAMU), have seen increased interest from students seeking environments where their cultural and educational experiences are valued. HBCU Enrollment Surge: Howard University: Reported a significant increase in applications, with a growth of nearly 30% over the past year. Morgan State University: Saw a 15% rise in enrollment, the highest in its recent history. Coppin State University: Experienced a 20% increase in freshman applications. FAMU: Noted a 25% increase in applications. These numbers reflect a growing trend among students prioritizing HBCUs. As M.I.T. and other elite institutions grapple with the implications of reduced diversity, HBCUs are becoming increasingly vital as centers of excellence that nurture the next generation of leaders. https://lnkd.in/dY_sze84 Elizabeth Leiba Dr. Susan Swayze UCLA PhD, Duke MBA Gillian Marcelle, PhD Mike Green Joe Cardillo Shari Dunn L C De Shay #Becarefulwhatyouaskfor

The recent enrollment increases at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are a powerful reflection of how the cultural and political climate is shaping the choices of diverse students. This shift is not only a sign of students seeking environments that foster cultural identity and support but also a reaction to the heightened awareness of racial and social justice issues. As institutions that are deeply rooted in the Black experience, HBCUs have long been sanctuaries for students seeking solidarity and community, and these gains suggest a broader movement toward seeking educational spaces that acknowledge and champion their experiences. The rising interest in HBCUs could be seen as a direct response to the current cultural and political climate, particularly in the wake of events like the Black Lives Matter movement and other national conversations surrounding racial equity. Students are increasingly aware of the importance of attending institutions that provide more than just an education but a space where they can thrive both intellectually and emotionally. This shift in enrollment patterns indicates a deepening recognition among students that their cultural identity and personal values should align with the institutions they choose to attend. It is not only about academic preparation but about feeling seen, heard, and supported in an environment that acknowledges their lived experiences. As seen in other reports, schools that are proactive in creating diverse, inclusive, and culturally responsive environments are more likely to see growth in enrollment and retention. This change strategy signals that universities must continue to evolve, offering not just diversity in student bodies, but also inclusivity in curriculum, support systems, and policies. For HBCUs, this is an opportunity to reaffirm their position as not just educational institutions, but as cultural centers that play a pivotal role in shaping the future of diverse student populations. As we celebrate this shift, we must also remain vigilant in ensuring these gains are sustained through long-term strategic planning, focusing on student support, academic rigor, and community engagement.

📈 Trymaine Lee writes: Interest in historically Black #colleges and #universities is surging. For example, Howard University, among the nation’s top #HBCUs, received a record 37,000 applications for its upcoming freshman class. But this isn’t the first time Black colleges have seen a spike in interest. Though #HBCU enrollment increased more than 25% between 1976 and 1994, according to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES), a big leap in admissions coincided with the run of the college-set sitcom “A Different World.”  Now, as the world of higher education continues to shift, the cast is coming back together to celebrate the show’s lasting legacy, 35 years after its premiere, with a tour of HBCUs across the country. “We tackled all the issues you see college kids attack, because it’s usually in college where you come into your own self-awareness,” Darryl M. Bell, who played Ron Johnson on “A Different World,” said in a recent interview. Fast-forward decades later to President Joe Biden’s commencement address at Morehouse College, where he praised the school’s history.  “The founders of Morehouse understood something fundamental. Education is linked to freedom. Because to be free means to have something that no one can ever take away from you,” Biden said, before announcing $16 billion in new investments for historically Black colleges and universities.  Earlier this year, the cast reunited for its HBCU tour to raise awareness about the institutions, establish a “Different World” scholarship fund and connect with a new generation of young, gifted and Black students. It’s also the perfect opportunity, said Dawnn Lewis — Jaleesa on the show — to remind young Black Americans of their collective power.   “I think the point is to keep talking, to keep having the conversation, to let them know — give them the permission to know — that they are empowered to have the conversation,” she said. Lewis urged, “you need to vote. You need to read. You’ve got to know who is who and if for no other reason, vote for the future.” #BlackStudents #RacialEquity #EducationalEquity #DEI

Harvard is often seen as a pinnacle of academic excellence, but for those seeking an environment that truly celebrates diversity of thought, culture, and experience, institutions like Howard University and other HBCUs have long been the top choice. Howard, in particular, embodies what a rich educational experience should be: one that fosters intellectual rigor while embracing the complexities of identity, history, and systemic challenges. The recent drop in Black student enrollment at Harvard underscores an important distinction. While Harvard may be prestigious, HBCUs have always prioritized access, opportunity, and the cultivation of diverse perspectives, and hold their own prestige. At schools like Howard, students are not just attending classes—they’re immersed in a legacy of empowerment. They are surrounded by peers and faculty who share a mission of dismantling barriers and creating spaces for marginalized voices to thrive. The importance of this cannot be overstated. These institutions consistently produce trailblazers who reshape industries, communities, and entire cultural landscapes. In fact, applications to Howard are at an all-time high, a clear reflection of its rising status as a premier destination for students who value not just academic achievement, but a culturally rich, intellectually stimulating environment. Perhaps those who don’t get into Howard can consider Harvard as their second choice. As someone who grew up in the affluent town of Westport, CT, I graduated in the top 10% of my high school class with absolutely zero interest in attending Harvard. My heart was set on Howard where I graduated Magna Cum Laude and went on to law school. Howard was the place that recognized my potential and nurtured my intellect and my purpose. That choice made all the difference in my life. Howard University, and other HBCUs like it, provide more than just an education—they offer a community, a legacy, and an environment where students are truly seen and valued. These institutions foster the kind of thought leadership that drives cultural, political, and social change. As we continue to advocate for equitable policies in education, and otherwise, we must remember that institutions like Howard, where diversity is deeply ingrained in the fabric of the institution, will always lead the way in nurturing transformative potential. The real challenge lies in ensuring that this kind of diversity and opportunity isn’t stifled elsewhere. We must create environments where every student—regardless of their background—has access to the same opportunities to learn, grow, and break through systemic barriers. SNM

The number of Black men at HBCUs is at it's lowest since 1976. How do we restore belief and increase their enrollment at HBCUs? On All Things Considered from NPR, Calvin Hadley, Ph.D. from Howard University spoke about a recent analysis that Black men now account for 26% of HBCU enrollment, down from 38% in 1976. Calvin stated: "The education that you receive in an HBCU transcends the classroom experience. It transcends the relationship that you have with your professor. The education exists in between the lines of the pages. HBCUs inundate you with the sense of belief." 📊 Our social intelligence research highlights how alumni stories can powerfully convey the unique value of an HBCU education, inspiring prospective students to believe in the promise of these institutions. Our recommended strategies support campuses in leveraging outcomes-focused messaging to connect with prospective Black men and women, encourage enrollment, and uplift the next generation. 📚 Read the NPR article: https://lnkd.in/dsrEjzGT 💡 Get the research: https://lnkd.in/gW_CEpUj

"The outlook for institutions seeking to enroll Black students has become far less certain—thanks, in large part, to the twin forces of the Supreme Court ruling on the use of race in admissions and the concomitant pullback of diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts among U.S. institutions. Add in COVID recovery and this year’s FAFSA snafu, and most institutions are concerned about their abilities to attract students who have been historically underserved.  But for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), this changing environment has been a boon." Read more in today's #EVWakeUpCall: https://lnkd.in/gip9C6bQ #HBCU #enrollment #highered #highereducation #prospectivestudents #enrollmentmanagement #enrollmentmarketing #Blackstudents #highereducationleaders

In the wake of the Supreme Court’s ruling on affirmative action, HBCUs are seeing a surge in enrollment as Black students seek inclusive environments. Learn how business schools and companies can support these institutions in fostering diverse talent and building a bright future. #HBCUBusiness #DiversityInEducation #BusinessImpact Read about our thoughts here: https://lnkd.in/gNnRZdyG