As Black college students traverse the current landscape, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) maintain their established purpose: to provide education to Black people when most colleges and universities are inaccessible. Akin to the work of bell hooks in Teaching Community: A Pedagogy of Hope (2003), the purpose of this session is to offer hope through reflection and conversation. More specifically, this session will: (a) discuss the current anti-DEI and anti-Black climate and its impact on the landscape of HBCUs; (b) share how diverse administrators, faculty members, and staff are supporting identity development of diverse students; and (c) showcase how curriculum and research are establishing a vocational mindset and enhancing engagement at HBCUs.
Akilah R. Carter-Francique, Dean for School of Education, Health and Human Services and Professor in Sport Management, Benedict College (SC)
Amanda Shaw, Assistant Professor and Pre-Health Coordinator in the Department of Biology, Benedict College (SC)