Jessmine Cornelius
Brand Ambassador of HBCU Times Groups
HBCUs are capsules that preserve culture, tradition and most importantly history. While continually blazing the trail for producing the nation’s top black engineers, scientists, mathematicians, nurses and more, the students continue to live and succeed in a life that so many of our ancestors could have only dreamed about. The fact that conversation continually ensues surrounding how the HBCU is still relevant and effective or how, is mind-boggling as these beloved institutions were once all some had at a chance for formal education and still remain a beacon of hope for many who are disadvantaged.
There is no secret that the demographic makeup of the HBCU is usually predominately black. While all of us may not come from these economically disadvantaged areas, the achievement gap in primary and secondary learning is still small. This, in turn, speaks for the ever increasing dropout rates for minority students at PWIs however the retention rates at some HBCUs paint a picture with a different message: possibility
Attending an HBCU is a humbling experience. First, you learn the rich of your institution in the very beginning. Knowing that many of us walk freely on the ground of where even more were once enslaved is empowering. Personally, this is where the pride sets in for me because when you know better — about yourself and where you come from — you do better. Though built in music, I have dedicated my platform with over 500,000 followers to not only sharing my experience at Prairie View A & M but also the stories from and of other HBCUs and the success breezed from all to encourage the next generation to join the HBCU fam! Being an Ambassador will continue to ensure the spotlight on all of these institutions, as unity will always be our greatest driving force to continued success. With time and guidance, HBCUs will remain relevant in the growth of generations to come.