February 25, 1837
Institute for Colored Youth (now Cheyney University of Pennsylvania) is established, becoming the first higher education institution for Black students.
April 29, 1854
Ashmun Institute (now Lincoln University) is founded, making it the first degree-granting HBCU.
March 24, 1856
Wilberforce University, in Ohio, becomes the first independent HBCU funded and founded by Black Americans.
July 2, 1862
The Morrill Act of 1862 allocated federal land to individual states to establish colleges focusing on agricultural and mechanical education.
March 2, 1867
Howard University is chartered, becoming one of the most prominent and influential HBCUs, known for its commitment to civil rights and social justice.
July 4, 1881
Tuskegee Institute (now Tuskegee University), in Alabama, was founded and Booker T. Washington was the first teacher and head of school, emphasizing vocational and industrial training for Black students.
August 30, 1890
Also known as the Agricultural College Act of 1890, this federal legislation provided funding for land-grant institutions, including HBCUs, with a focus on agricultural and mechanical education.
October 3, 1904
Bethune-Cookman University was founded by Mary McLeod Bethune, becoming one of the first HBCUs for women.
1927
Alcorn Agricultural and Mechanical College (now Alcorn State University) becomes the first state-supported HBCU.
April 25, 1944
The UNCF was established to provide financial support and resources for HBCUs, raising awareness about the importance of these institutions and the need for equitable access to education.
June 5, 1950
Results in the desegregation of graduate and professional programs in Texas, expanding opportunities for African Americans in higher education.
May 17, 1954
This landmark Supreme Court case declared racial segregation in public schools unconstitutional, directly impacting the fight for educational equality, including the role of HBCUs in providing education during desegregation.
July 2, 1964
This legislation, signed into law by President Lyndon B. Johnson, prohibited discrimination based on race, color, religion, sex, or national origin, further reinforcing the fight for equal access to education and resources.
November 8, 1965
This federal law provided funding and support for higher education institutions, including HBCUs, to enhance their academic programs and facilities.
1980s
HBCUs experience financial challenges and budget cuts, leading to concerns about their sustainability.
September 17, 1980
This initiative aimed to strengthen HBCUs by promoting excellence, collaboration, and access to federal resources.
1989
UNCF launches its iconic slogan, “A mind is a terrible thing to waste,” to raise awareness and support for HBCUs.
December 19, 2019
This legislation provided permanent funding for HBCUs and other minority-serving institutions, addressing financial challenges and supporting their continued contribution to education.
June 29, 2023
In this significant ruling, the Supreme Court upheld the constitutionality of a state’s race-conscious admissions policy in higher education, affirming the importance of diversity and inclusion in college admissions and acknowledging the ongoing relevance of affirmative action for HBCU applicants and other historically underrepresented communities.
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Explore the rich history and significance of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in the United States, highlighting their contributions to higher education and the civil rights movement from the 19th century to present.
