America, as we know it today, would cease to exist without the contributions of historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). For decades these institutions have been the backbone of Black culture and Black advancement, and now it seems that they are finally getting the recognition that they deserve.

In late September, The White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence, and Economic Opportunity through HBCUs convened for its annual national conference in Washington, D.C., from September 20-23 to celebrate these institutions and provide them with the keys to thrive.

The experience included multiple days of events dedicated to HBCUs and provided opportunities to a plethora of HBCU students to come to D.C. as a part of its White House Scholars program.

In an exclusive with NewsOne, U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona spoke about the importance of celebrating HBCUs and empowering these historic institutions that are still relevant today.

“HBCUs punch above their weight they are producing higher percentages of Black excellence than any other University System. We need to lift them up for what they are doing and we need to support them. Not just by words but by actions,” said Cardona. “We’ve provided $6 billion in funds in one year that’s more than any other administration total. But we are also giving them opportunities to be engaged in programming with different departments and make sure they are eligible for contracts also. We want to support their infrastructure. We want to lift up the sense of community and family that they are.” Continue Reading