A Fresh Approach: Ethnic Diversity On Campuses In America

Abstract

The Historical Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) has defined its legacy.  The HBCU developed campuses to prepare African-Americans for a variety of careers.  They are considered to be specialized educational system within higher education.  This system provided a way for many African-Americans to showcase their intellectual abilities.  The HBCU’s historical context and missions primarily focus on African-Americans (Roebuck & Komanduri, 1993).  As education for African-Americans changed, access to college became more inclusive.  More HBCU’s face adversity and diversity, with challenges brought on by a more diverse student population.  This article describes how the HBCUs must look at ethnic diversity on campuses.  Then begin the challenge of modifying traditional missions based on serving one type of ethnic student population.