You have heard the term at homecoming, on game day and in every conversation about Black excellence. But what exactly is an HBCU? Here is a simple guide to Historically Black Colleges and Universities, and why they mean so much to millions of students, alumni and families.
The official definition
HBCU stands for Historically Black College or University. Under the Higher Education Act of 1965, the U.S. Department of Education recognizes a school as an HBCU when it:
- Was established before 1964
- Has a principal mission that was, and is, the education of Black Americans
- Is accredited by a nationally recognized accrediting agency
Today there are roughly 100 HBCUs across the country, from large public universities to small private colleges, mostly in the South and along the East Coast.
Where it all started
The oldest HBCU, Cheyney University of Pennsylvania, dates to 1837. Many more were founded in the years after the Civil War, when formerly enslaved people and their children were shut out of most colleges. Schools like Howard University and Alabama State University (both 1867) and Alcorn State University (1871) opened their doors during that era, and many others followed.
Why HBCUs still matter
HBCUs have produced generations of teachers, doctors, lawyers, engineers, artists and leaders. Just as important, they offer something hard to measure: a campus where Black students are the center of the story, surrounded by history, tradition and a community that shows up for each other long after graduation.
That community is a big part of HBCU culture. Homecoming, marching bands, step shows, rivalry classics and the pride of wearing your school's colors all come from that same spirit.
Rep your school
At Educated N Fly, every design is made to celebrate that pride. Whether you are a student, a proud parent or an alum, you can find your school in our HBCU T-shirts, HBCU sweatshirts, HBCU blankets and HBCU hats.
Check back every week for new posts on HBCU culture, classics, traditions and gift ideas.
The ENF Journal is the blog of Educated N Fly, where HBCU pride meets style.