Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have played an essential role in the education and empowerment of African Americans since the early 1800s. In Missouri, there are two HBCUs that have been serving the black community for more than a century.
Lincoln University, located in Jefferson City, was established in 1866 as a university for African Americans in Missouri. The university offers over fifty undergraduate and graduate degree programs in various fields such as business, nursing, education, and performing arts. With a student population of approximately 3,000, Lincoln University is dedicated to providing its students with quality education and fostering a supportive learning environment.
Harris-Stowe State University, located in St. Louis, traces its origins back to the 1850s, where it started as a teacher’s college for black students. Today, it offers bachelor’s degrees in over 50 majors and pre-professional programs across three schools —the School of Business and Technology, the School of Education, and the School of Arts and Sciences. Harris-Stowe State University has a student population of around 1,800 and prides itself on providing high-quality education to students who may not have the financial means to attend a four-year university.
The two universities have been crucial in providing opportunities for African Americans to pursue higher education in Missouri. There are several reasons why attending an HBCU is an excellent choice for black students.
First, HBCUs have a long history and tradition of educating African Americans, and they have been instrumental in producing successful black leaders in different fields today. Attending an HBCU provides students with a sense of empowerment and pride in their heritage, which can lead to higher levels of confidence and determination to succeed.
Second, HBCUs provide a nurturing environment for their students, and there is a sense of community and brotherhood/sisterhood among students. With smaller classrooms and close-knit relationships with professors, students receive more individualized attention and support, leading to higher academic achievement and lower dropout rates.
Lastly, HBCUs offer a unique educational experience that cannot be found elsewhere. Students are exposed to an array of classes and programs that are steeped in African American history and culture. This exposure to cultural diversity is invaluable in promoting acceptance, understanding, and tolerance for other races and cultures.
In conclusion, HBCUs in Missouri have been instrumental in providing quality education and empowerment to African Americans for over a century. Lincoln University and Harris-Stowe State University are two essential institutions for promoting diversity, cultural understanding, and academic achievement. Future black students looking to pursue higher education should consider attending an HBCU, as it can provide them with a unique and valuable experience that they will not find anywhere else.
