With Black History Month upon us and our Local Love issue underway, we felt it essential to highlight some glowing examples of black excellence within Maryland and Washington, D.C. and to mention some of the great leaders that have risen within their careers as alumni from these exceptional institutions.
HBCU stands for Historically Black Colleges and Universities. These institutions were established primarily to provide higher education opportunities to African Americans at a time when they were largely denied access to predominantly white colleges and universities due to racial segregation and discrimination. The first HBCU, Cheyney University of Pennsylvania, was founded in 1837. The first HBCU founded in Maryland, in 1865, is Bowie State University. The first HBCU in Washington, D.C. is The University of the District of Columbia and was founded in 1851, the second oldest in the country.
Another fine example of those positively impacted by the HBCUs, were Jewish refugees. The following is a history chronicled in the Museum exhibition, Beyond Swastika and Jim Crow: Jewish Refugee Scholars at Black Colleges.
Rejected from faculty positions at predominantly white institutions like Princeton and Harvard, Herz faced an uncertain path forward.
Fortunately, another door opened. Many Jewish refugees, like Herz, found opportunities at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in the U.S., including Howard University in Washington, D.C., and Hampton Institute in Virginia. For the HBCUs, hiring these scholars brought fresh perspectives and international ideas to their students. For the refugees, it offered not only a career but also a sense of belonging when other institutions had turned them away.
HBCUs continue to play a vital role in reducing racial disparities, addressing social inequities, and producing graduates who make lasting contributions to society. All races and creeds are welcome as they continue to serve in the name of higher education for all.
Notable Alumni include:
Bowie State: Gwendolyn T. Britt.
Coppin State: Verda Welcome.
UMES: Clarence Clemons
Morgan State: Kweisi Mfume.
UDC: John Thompson, Aldon Lynn Nielsen.
Howard: Kamala Harris, Elijah Cummings.
BOWIE STATE UNIVERSITY
Bowie State University provides affordable, high-quality education with 29 undergraduate majors, 20 master’s programs, 16 certificates, and 3 doctoral degrees in science, technology, business, and education. A supportive environment promotes critical thinking, innovation, and inclusivity, preparing students to lead in a technology-driven world and make meaningful global contributions.
COPPIN STATE UNIVERSITY
Founded in 1900, Coppin State University (CSU) is a Historically Black Institution honoring Fanny Jackson Coppin, a pioneering African-American educator. Originally focused on teacher education, CSU now offers 53 programs, including bachelor’s, master’s, certificates, and a doctoral degree, emphasizing academic excellence, student success, and preparation for impactful careers and lifelong learning.
UNIVERSITY OF MARYLAND EASTERN SHORES
The University of Maryland Eastern Shore (UMES), a public 1890 land-grant Historically Black University, is dedicated to diversity and empowering first-generation and underserved students. Through education, research, and community engagement, UMES transforms student lives, preparing them to make a meaningful impact across the state, region, and beyond.
MORGAN STATE UNIVERSITY
Founded in 1867, Morgan State University is a Carnegie-classified R2 high-research institution offering over 140 academic programs from bachelor’s to doctoral levels. As Maryland’s Preeminent Public Urban Research University, Morgan serves a diverse global student body and addresses urban challenges through community-focused research and innovative solutions, advancing knowledge and improving urban environments.
UNIVERSITY OF THE DISTRICT OF COLUMBIA
The University of the District of Columbia combines historic roots with modern advancements. Originating in 1851 with Miner Normal School for “colored girls” and Wilson Normal School for white girls, they merged in 1955 after Brown v. Board of Education. In 1966, Congress established Federal City College and Washington Technical Institute, broadening its mission.
HOWARD UNIVERSITY
Howard University excels in producing Black professionals in fields like medicine, law, engineering, and education. Dedicated to combating racial and social inequities, Howard drives change as a leading predominantly Black institution. Through innovative programs, it promotes peace, justice, and equity, transforming lives in the U.S. and around the world.
It continues to be important to find connections amongst humanity. Greatness begets greatness. We benefit most when we all have access to superior education and opportunities presented to us because of it. Let us celebrate the power of knowledge and those who embrace it, not only to improve their own life, but the lives of others.