Historically Black Colleges and Universities’ Institutional Survival and Sustainability

Abstract

Historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in the United States are facing turbulent environments that include increased accountability and assessment measures, competition, state mandates, declining budgets, changes in the classroom and pedagogical landscape, and diminutive endowments. These factors are further heightened by an ongoing debate regarding the relevance of HBCUs and a paradigm shift that calls for more entrepreneurial-based leadership in the decision-making process and businessbased strategies aimed at institutional survival. However, HBCU leadership, which often ascends from the faculty ranks, does not possess the business degrees or marketing experience that would equip them for the evolving and complex demands of the higher education marketplace. To assist HBCU leadership in navigating the market-driven environment in higher education, this descriptive study explores the factors and issues critical to the survival and sustainability of HBCUs from the perspective of HBCU business deans. Business-based recommendations and strategies conclude this article.

The Sustainability of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUS) in the Post-COVID-19 World and Beyond

“…Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have been a vital part of the American higher education landscape since the late 19th century (Andrews et al, 2016;Bracey, 2017;Gasman, 2013). These institutions are distinguished by their mission to provide educational opportunities to African Americans, who were largely excluded from mainstream, White-dominated higher education institutions (Andrews et al, 2016;Bracey, 2017;Gasman, 2013). HBCUs have produced some of the most influential leaders in politics, business, the arts, and other fields.…”

“…HBCUs have produced some of the most influential leaders in politics, business, the arts, and other fields. They have also been crucial in helping African American students develop the skills and knowledge necessary to become successful in their chosen fields (Andrews et al, 2016;Bracey, 2017;Gasman, 2013).…”

“…HBCUs have long been a source of pride for African American communities. They have provided a safe and supportive environment for African American students to pursue their educational goals (Andrews et al, 2016;Bracey, 2017;Gasman, 2013). This has been especially true for African American women, who often face additional barriers when seeking higher education (Andrews et al, 2016;Bracey, 2017;Gasman, 2013).…”

“…They have provided a safe and supportive environment for African American students to pursue their educational goals (Andrews et al, 2016;Bracey, 2017;Gasman, 2013). This has been especially true for African American women, who often face additional barriers when seeking higher education (Andrews et al, 2016;Bracey, 2017;Gasman, 2013). HBCUs have also been instrumental in helping to close the achievement gap between African American and white students (Andrews et al, 2016;Bracey, 2017;Gasman, 2013).…”

Boyz in the hoods : (re) defining the narratives of Black male doctoral degree completers

“…Consequently, researchers often explore the relevancy of HBCUs in today's higher education landscape (Preston & Palmer, 2018;Broady, Todd, & Booth-Bell, 2017;Wilcox, Wells, Haddad & Wilcox, 2013). Despite such questioning from critics, HBCUs remain committed to survival and sustainability (Andrews, No, Powell, Rey & Yigletu, 2016;. HBCU advocates are confident that HBCUs will remain an inherent part of the U.S. higher education landscape, telling a broader and often forgotten part of the U.S. education system (Broady, Todd & Booth-Bell, 2017).…”