Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have long served as vital institutions in American education, playing a transformative role in the lives of their students and alumni. Founded during a time when access to higher education for Black Americans was severely limited, these beloved schools not only provide academic excellence but also foster a sense of community, cultural pride and social responsibility.
Their deep-rooted commitment to empowering students goes beyond the classroom, equipping graduates with the skills, confidence and networks necessary to thrive in an increasingly competitive world. As we continue to explore the profound impact HBCUs have on individual lives and the broader community, it becomes clear that these institutions are not merely educational establishments—they are catalysts for change, responsible for shaping the future leaders, innovators and advocates of tomorrow.
We tapped a few students and alum to pen heartfelt words to their respective schools. Check out their love letters below.
Jessica N. McDonald (The 98th Miss JCSU)- Johnson C. Smith University
Dear Johnson C. Smith University, From the moment I set foot on your campus, I felt a sense of belonging that can only come from being a part of something greater—a community, a legacy, a family. You have given me more than just an education; you have nurtured my spirit, challenged my mind and empowered me to stand tall in the fullness of who I am. Through your doors, I found not only knowledge but purpose. Your legacy of excellence, service and leadership has fueled my own journey, pushing me to aim higher, dig deeper and never settle for anything less than the best. You have taught me what it means to truly serve, to advocate, and to uplift those around me, and I am forever grateful. Smith, thank you for allowing this wife, mother and student to live out her dream of furthering her education at an HBCU.
Johnson C. Smith University, you are the heart of my HBCU experience, and for that, I am endlessly proud. I love you for your wisdom, your resilience and your unyielding commitment to shaping the leaders of tomorrow. In your halls, I have found my voice, and I leave determined to make a difference in this world, always carrying your golden legacy and FOREVER HOLDING HIGH THE GOLD AND BLUE!
Andrea Hunter- South Carolina State University
As I sing the praises of my beloved alma mater in this, my 20th class reunion year, it takes me to the happiest days of my life. I never envisioned one institution could change my life forever. I attended SCSU as a legacy of my mother and other family members before me. SCSU is where I met the man who would become my future husband and father of my children though he started out as my stunt partner when I was a cheerleader at the university.
South Carolina State University is where I spent countless hours in Belcher Hall to obtain my accounting degree that led to my now successful and fulfilling career in accounting and finance. SCSU is where I became a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated 21 short years ago. My HBCU experience made me a proud, articulate, poised and educated woman. SCSU is where I met lifelong friends that were bridesmaids in my wedding, are now my son’s godparents and who to this day are my sisters that I can count on when times get tough.
I was surrounded by beautiful brown and Black students that looked like me and I felt seen for the first time. If I could go back in time and change anything, I would have graduated high school earlier just to get a head start on what was the beginning of my life. Hail, hail dear alma mater. Hail, hail dear SCC. Will defend and honor, love and cherish thee.
R. Davis Dixon- North Carolina Central University
Dear North Carolina Central University, let me start by saying I love you. You took me in, showed me my purpose, pushed my thinking, gave me best friends, made me step out of my comfort zone and propelled me to places I would’ve never thought I’d see as a 17-year-old child when I first walked your sloping hills and verdant greens.
If you didn’t give me anything else, I still wouldn’t be able to repay the debt I owe. But you continue to pour into me and every other person who calls you home. It’s deeper than homecomings, 10:40 breaks and chicken Wednesdays. You instill a level of confidence in each one of us that gives us the push to take on a world that was never built for us and bend it to our will. I am ever grateful North Carolina Central University. My appreciation for you goes to the depths of my soul, and I will continue to put on for us. We are just as worthy. Our water is just as wet. And “Truth and Service” will always be the standard.
Hope Pierce-Jackson- Albany State University
To the unsinkable Albany State University, as I write this, I hear chants of “I’m so glad that I’m from A-S-U!” From 2000-2003, you were my home and forever will be the place of my academic and cultural awakening. I’ve always felt at home with you. As a child, my cousin introduced me to your “yard,” where I first felt the conditions of joy being created through student life. A decade later, I found that same joy.
With you I discovered my identity as a Golden Ram, celebrated Blackness, learned that excellence is an active pursuit, and my presence at ASU was my right. You recognized my potential before I did, calling me a scholar. Thank you for the academic investment, community, and the gifts you offered me as I was learning and growing into myself. Looking at my life now, you were my ram in the bush.
Alex Ford- Hampton University
To my historic Home by The Sea, how I love and appreciate thee. The way you nurtured, uplifted and empowered me to be the best man, storyteller, and innovator I could be. From allowing me to find my distinct voice as a budding journalist to connecting me with friends-turned-family, I’m forever thankful. Attending Hampton University—the real HU—is easily one of the best decisions I’ve ever made.
Nestled in the heart of Hampton, Virginia, on a gorgeous slice of heaven, Hampton University continues to inspire me as the standard of excellence in the pantheon of prestigious HBCUs.
