The term "HBCU" is defined by Congress as a "historically Black college or university established before 1964, with a primary mission of educating Black Americans." Presently, there are 107 HBCUs acknowledged by the U.S. Department of Education, 11 of which are in North Carolina! These institutions remain committed to their original mission and currently enroll over 300,000 students nationwide, representing diverse racial and ethnic backgrounds.
PBS NC is proud to participate in a national initiative celebrating HBCUs and their enduring contributions. In partnership with Maryland Public Television (MPT), Louisiana Public Broadcasting and Howard University Television, we are excited to bring you inspiring programs and stories that honor the legacy, contributions and importance of HBCUs.
This HBCU Week special spotlights innovation in higher education and its positive impact on students and the community. Host Kenia Thompson discusses innovations at NC Central University with Dr. Kimberly Phifer-McGhee, associate vice chancellor for extended studies, and biology professor Dr. Eric Saliim. Plus, Winston-Salem State University’s motorsports program and its partnership with NASCAR.
Watch Black Issues Forum Fridays, 7 PM on PBS NC and streaming on the PBS app.
Tuesday, October 8, 6 PM
Students, staff, faculty, alumni and community members are invited to join PBS North Carolina's "Black Issues Forum" to celebrate HBCU Week Now with a special screening featuring NASCAR driver Rajah Caruth and a Q&A about the motorsports management program at Winston-Salem State University.
This event is free but advanced registration is required.
In this HBCU Week special, learn about Elizabeth City State University’s aviation sciences program, the only four-year collegiate aviation education program in North Carolina. Also, join us as we take a look at the Aggie-Eagle Classic, a legendary college football rivalry that’s all about family.
Catch up on this episode from September of 2023.
North Carolina is home to many of the nation’s top HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities). George Lynch, Co-founder of HBCU Heroes, and Kamille Bostick, Director of Programming at CREED, join host Kenia Thompson to discuss HBCU’s impact on the state.
Catch up on this episode from September of 2022.
Making Black America: Through the Grapevine is a four-part series hosted by Henry Louis Gates, Jr., that chronicles the vast social networks and organizations created by and for Black people—beyond the reach of the “White gaze.” Professor Gates sits with noted scholars, politicians, cultural leaders, and old friends to discuss this world behind the color line and what it looks like today.
Watch Making Black America streaming now on the PBS app with PBS NC Passport.
Shaw University started in December 1865 with a Bible class for newly freed slaves in Raleigh, NC. Fighting vicious prejudice in the aftermath of the Civil War and the Jim Crow South, Shaw rose to become a co-educational college, a medical school, law school & divinity school.
Watch Shaw Rising streaming now on the PBS app.
Blog from Independent Lens
Graduates of Historic Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are proud alums, and in connection with the Independent Lens film Tell Them We Are Rising, which tells the 170 years—and rising—history of HBCUs, we found a few who were happy to tell their own stories of life on an HBCU campus.
A Public Media Partnership
Films about the under-told stories of sacrifice, courage, innovation and hope that chronicle HBCU contributions to science, medicine, history, education, civil rights, the arts, music, sports and more.
North Carolina is home to a noteworthy cluster of HBCUs. Learn more about these colleges and universities below.
Greensboro, NC
Bennett College thrives at the intersection of empowerment and education, specializing in nurturing future leaders. Renowned for its commitment to fostering leadership skills and promoting social justice among women, Bennett College offers a dynamic educational environment. With a rich history dating back to 1873, the college's strengths lie in equipping its students with knowledge, resilience, and values that empower them to address contemporary challenges and become impactful leaders in their communities and beyond.
Elizabeth City, NC
Students and faculty at ECSU are at the forefront of transformative advancements in aviation science, unmanned aircraft, and emergency management. With unique programs offering the only four-year aviation degrees in the state, ECSU is preparing the next generation of pilots, drone operators, and emergency responders to meet the needs of these critical industries.
Fayetteville, NC
FSU is dedicated to serving North Carolina's military community, with programs like the MBA@FayState offering flexible career advancement options. Through initiatives such as the Center for Defense and Homeland Security and collaborations in nursing, FSU prepares military leaders and veterans for meaningful service and post-service careers, contributing to the well-being of the military and local communities alike.
Charlotte, NC
JCSU stands as a pioneering institution, leading in key areas of education and innovation. With specialized programs and a commitment to excellence, JCSU is driving advancements in fields such as urban sustainability, social justice, and entrepreneurship. Through its unique curriculum and dedicated faculty, the university prepares students to become change-makers, addressing pressing challenges and shaping a brighter future in these vital domains.
Salisbury, NC
Livingstone College excels in areas such as social sciences, humanities, and leadership development. Renowned for its commitment to cultivating informed and empowered leaders, the college's main academic strengths lie in preparing students for impactful careers in fields like sociology, psychology, and criminology. Through rigorous programs and dedicated faculty, Livingstone College equips its graduates with the knowledge and skills to address pressing societal issues, promote social change, and contribute meaningfully to their communities.
Greensboro, NC
N.C. A&T is equipping the next generation for the workforce by offering cutting-edge academic programs in autonomous vehicles, cyber security, and artificial intelligence. Through interdisciplinary research involving students, faculty, and industry leaders, they are at the forefront of developing innovative solutions for safer autonomous vehicles. Additionally, N.C. A&T is addressing the growing challenges in cyber security and ensuring that software engineering students are well-prepared to lead in an era where artificial intelligence is increasingly integral to decision-making across various sectors.
Durham, NC
With a 111-year legacy of excellence and a commitment to public service, NCCU prepares diverse individuals across North Carolina to become leaders in various fields. Through cutting-edge research and unique learning environments, the university addresses critical workforce needs, focusing on areas such as information sciences, nursing, biotechnology, and health disparities, contributing to solving complex problems and improving overall quality of life.
Raleigh, NC
Saint Augustine's University, with its distinguished 154-year history, stands as a beacon of excellence and commitment to public service. Specializing in programs such as criminal justice, business administration, and social work, the university prepares a diverse student body for leadership roles in these fields. By combining innovative education with a strong tradition of community engagement, Saint Augustine's University equips its graduates to excel in addressing societal challenges, promoting social justice, and making a positive impact within their chosen professions and communities.
Raleigh, NC
Shaw University distinguishes itself through its pioneering programs in divinity, social work, and journalism. These specialized offerings equip students with the knowledge and skills necessary to become leaders in their respective fields. By preparing them to address pressing societal issues, advocate for social justice, and communicate impactful stories, the university cultivates individuals who can make a profound and positive impact on their communities and the broader world.
Winston-Salem, NC
WSSU stands at the intersection of technology and innovation, offering high-impact educational opportunities in motorsports, gamification, and health sciences. Through pioneering gamification research, motorsports management programs, and health equity initiatives, the university leverages technology to conquer challenges, prepare talent for the motorsport industry, and reduce health disparities, demonstrating its commitment to cutting-edge education and service.
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