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The recruiting departments of every Historically Black College and University in the country should be hard at work putting together a plan of attack to attract more of the 2016 high school graduates to their school.
The national story about racial tensions at the University of Missouri, and other schools around the country, has been an eye-opener for some.
However, for many African-Americans, it is simply more of the same. It is the continuation of a situation that has historically been in play for African-Americans at mostly white institutions.
The national focus on that aspect of college life for black students at mostly white schools is akin to the fact that some police target African-Americans. It has always occured, but now it is finally coming to light.
An Associated Press story talked about how African-American students tolerate different facets of racism almost daily. See Black Students Around US Complain of Casual, Everyday Racism
What these recent events present could be an incredible opportunity for the nation’s HBCUs.
Going forward, college bound African-American students _ and especially their parents, who pay the tuitions _ are going consider what the racial environment of prospectve schools are like.
That is not an issue at HBCUs. In addition to being in a place where you are welcomed and celebrated, the other thing HBCUs have historically excelled at is meeting the needs of the student.
The classrooms at HBCUs are typically smaller, the instruction typically more intimate and personal. A student can find the academic challenges that will help he or she grow, as well as the academic support.
Hopefully, HBCUs will be aggressive in selling those attributes, and so many more. The academics, campus life, and intimate surroundings, and great traditions that take place in an environment where everyone is welcomed, is an impressive selling point.
In other words, for any African-American student who is struggling in a school environment that isn’t comfortable.
Come back home.
