Chapter 20: Think Justice: Pushing The Boundaries of Black College Presidential Leadership

Most historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in the U.S. were established shortly after the Civil War in an effort to educate the former slaves. They were created separately from the already existing colleges and universities due to the immense discrimination haunting the country at the time. These institutions are responsible for educating the U.S. African American middle class as we know it today. Although they currently enroll only 16% of African American students, HBCUs graduate nearly 24%—a disproportionate number (Gasman & Tudico, 2008). Despite the important role that HBCUs have played, they are under constant attack and scrutiny from critics and face many resource challenges. The shifting global environment in which HBCUs exist calls for strong leadership and a commitment to social justice.