Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have a unique history, mission, and role in educating underrepresented and underserved students in the United States. In light of the recent uptick in institutional closures across sectors, understanding the factors associated with college survival for HBCUs is critical. Using linear probability…

Scholarship in composition and rhetoric has certainly addressed issues of African American economic inequality (Gilyard) and institutional austerity (Welch and Scott), yet the field has failed to address how both are united in the site of the contemporary HBCU. In particular, composition scholars have not explored how the shifts of the new economy…

This study examines how a Black college, referred to as Southern College, used a number of resources and strategies to remain a credible institution of choice in the community while also reversing a severe financial deficit. Qualitative research methods are used to understand strategies embraced by Southern College to stay afloat of the many…

In autumn, most colleges' football fields are covered with a thick carpet of grass or artificial turf and are adorned with yard lines. But the football field at Paul Quinn College was carved up by plowing and planting. This past fall, portions of the college's gridiron were covered with sweet potatoes, watermelons, peppers, rosemary, and sugar…

As America moves toward the ideals of its founding documents, some scholars have termed it "postethnic America," where culture rather than color or ethnicity will have more influence over the country's affairs. In postethnic America, the country will realize that all "are created equal," and no groups will be treated…

Released in June, 2010, this publication features excerpts from presentations by Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) trustees, chancellors and presidents as well as other education experts who candidly discuss issues surrounding accreditation at a unique meeting sponsored by the Southern Education Foundation. The Southern…

Describes how Morris Brown College in Atlanta exemplifies the financial plight of many small, historically black institutions. (EV)

The few existing historically Black Presbyterian colleges are struggling for survival. The church is encouraging the colleges to become self-sufficient as the predominantly white Presbyterian colleges are but does not want to diminish church ties. (MSE)

Describes how Bennett College, an historically black women's institution, is trying to regroup after its latest president lasted only seven months. (EV)

Discusses the plight of Central State University in Wilberforce, Ohio, and the University of the District of Columbia, both historically Black universities that are fighting for their existence due to declines in enrollment and funding and administrative problems. Individuals at each institution discuss the current crises and outlook for…

The Black College and University Act defined an historically black college and university (HBCU) as one that existed before 1964 with a historic and contemporary mission of educating blacks while being open to all. An HBCU must either have earned accreditation from a nationally recognized accrediting agency or association or be making reasonable…

Many historically black colleges and universities have developed several projects to improve technology on campus and promote its use. Some see it as a key to institutional survival. Projects emphasize training students and faculty in computer use, making joint purchases, sharing on-line instructional experiences, and seeking grants to install…

Issues in the survival of historically black colleges are examined in light of the recent court decision in "United States vs. Fordice." It is proposed that a national commission of black higher education be established and governance of black colleges be transferred to it by the states. (MSE)

A recent Supreme Court ruling that Mississippi's colleges are segregated and should consider mergers of predominantly white and historically black colleges has put pressure on black college alumni groups to help keep their institutions alive as an educational option. The Black College Alumni Leadership Consortium is establishing a political action…

Joseph Perkins argued in the "Wall Street Journal" that one-third of the 100 traditionally Black colleges should become two-year institutions. This rebuttal suggests that Black institutions' survival involves planning for new and broader missions in an unsheltered, integrated, competitive environment. (MLW)