Huston-Tillotson University, an HBCU in Austin, Texas, is establishing two satellite campuses in California, making it the state’s first HBCU. HT California is a collaboration between Huston-Tillotson University, the National College Resources Foundation, the San Diego County Office of Education and the University of La Verne.
From June 9 to July 20, several students enrolled in the I.D.E.A.L. Summer Academy on the campus of Huston-Tillotson University for a six-week HBCU immersive program. Upon completing the summer program, students earned up to nine college credit hours and were eligible to enroll in California for the fall schedule at the HTU California campus, at the Los Angeles/Inland Empire campus, or in San Diego.
In an official statement, Dr. Melva K. Wallace, president and CEO of Huston-Tillotson University, shared the importance of launching the innovative program. “By creating a satellite campus in California, Huston-Tillotson University is addressing the longstanding lack of Historically Black Colleges and Universities on the West Coast,” Wallace shared.
“As one of the westernmost HBCUs, HT is positioned, literally and figuratively, to bring its legacy of academic excellence and cultural empowerment to a region where the benefits of an HBCU have been largely absent. We will bridge a historical gap designed to meet the urgent demand for educational spaces that prioritize Black students’ cultural, social and academic needs.
“Most importantly, our presence will further serve to attract students who previously had to relocate far from home to attend an HBCU. By bringing HT closer to them, we remove financial and logistical barriers, allowing more students to benefit from an HBCU education without the need for long-distance travel or significant financial strain,” her statement continued. “This regional accessibility also means students from historically underserved communities, particularly in urban centers, will have a new and relevant choice for higher education—one that goes beyond academics to support their cultural identity, mental wellness, and leadership development.”
To be accepted into the program, incoming college freshmen or transfer students must have no more than 60 credit hours, submit a $100 commitment fee and complete a 2024-25 FAFSA application. Additionally, each prospective student must attend the six-week summer program.
