HBCUs: Higher Education Institutions in Transition

Abstract

Historically Black Colleges and Universities have many organizational characteristics and challenges similar to those of all urban and metropolitan institutions: to serve increasing proportions of first-generation, multicultural students from diverse, often disadvantaged backgrounds while also contributing to economic and community development. However, HBCUs must reassess their missions and strategies. The authors outline the current challenges facing HBCUs in the twenty-first century, especially shrinking enrollments and constrained financial support, and suggest opportunities for new educational approaches that build on successful HBCU traditions of responsiveness to students and communities.