Dr. L’Issa Gates
The Essence of HBCUs and How I Embody the Spirit of HBCUs
America’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities are unequivocally the hub of political, economic, religious, cultural and educational empowerment in the black community. For well over a century, they have been a beacon of hope for African Americans to freely aspire, engage and interact on many different levels to adequately secure their rightful places in society. HBCUs are what I term as the anchors of our past and the gateway to our future. As such, HBCUs are in and of themselves monuments of our storied and rich heritage. Moreover, they are analogous to precious jewels and encompass the heart and soul of an entire race of people.
Today, I boldly stand on the shoulders of my ancestors as a modern day testament to their laborious efforts and them daring to lay a solid foundation for myself and others to endure and flourish. I am confident that I am one of their wildest dreams come true because I wholeheartedly honor their legacy in all that I do as a role model and medical professional. As a proud alumna of Xavier University of Louisiana, I embody the universality and immortality of the human mind; the struggles and pains of being black in America and the notion of defying all odds. I also carry with me the sage knowledge imparted to me during my undergraduate studies which have given me the wherewithal and conviction to rise to the occasion and to serve others while humbling myself to do God’s will.