This article is the third part in a series NCAN is producing in February 2025 for Black History Month. Read Parts One, Two, and Four.
Black scholars, educators, and activists have played a crucial role in shaping the landscape of higher education, advocating for access, equity, and representation. It is especially important for us to recognize the Black trailblazers who have broken
barriers, challenged systemic inequities, and created opportunities for future generations of students.
We recognize trailblazers like Booker T. Washington and Mary McLeod Bethune who were so committed that they helped found multiple Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in their time. We also recognize Dr. WEB DuBois and Charles Hamilton Houston, whose philosophies have led to some of the most influential advancements for African Americans and have inspired countless other advancements in American society since. Their contributions continue to
inspire students today, reminding them that they belong in academic spaces and have the power to shape their own futures.
In honor of Black History Month, we want to highlight contemporary figures whose work has expanded opportunities for Black students in higher education as well as underscore some ways to affirm and inspire your Black students.
Dr. Ruth Simmons made history in 2001 when she became the first Black president of an Ivy League institution at Brown University. Before leading Brown, she was the President of Smith College, where she launched the nation’s first engineering program at
a women’s college. After her tenure at Brown, Simmons went on to serve as president of Prairie View A&M University, an HBCU in Texas. Throughout her career, she has been a fierce advocate for diversity, inclusion, and equitable access to education.
Sharif El-Mekki is a former educator and the founder of the Center for Black Educator Development, which focuses on increasing the number of Black teachers and fostering culturally affirming learning spaces. As a former principal and teacher, El-Mekki's advocacy in the field of education is reshaping how institutions approach the recruitment and support of Black educators, ultimately improving emphasizes the importance of culturally responsive teaching and ensuring
that Black students see themselves in their educators. His advocacy in the field of education is reshaping how institutions approach the recruitment and support of Black educators, ultimately improving outcomes for Black students.
Dr. Freeman Hrabowski has been a transformative leader in STEM education for Black students. As the president of the University of Maryland, Baltimore County for 30 years, he has been instrumental in increasing the number of Black students earning degrees
in science and engineering. Hrabowski co-founded the Meyerhoff Scholars Program, a nationally recognized initiative designed to support underrepresented students in STEM fields. His research and leadership have reshaped how universities approach student
success, particularly for Black students pursuing careers in fields where they have been historically underrepresented.
What This Means for Advisors, Counselors, and Educators
The stories of these Black trailblazers in higher education remind us of the power of persistence, advocacy, and leadership. As professionals working with students, it is essential to:
Highlight little-known but highly influential figures like the leaders mentioned above. Black students should see themselves reflected in history and in their futures. Consider incorporating these and other noteworthy names into career
exploration sessions, college workshops, and mentorship initiatives. Remind them there is an extensive legacy of excellence that can help guide them through their matriculation.
Advocate for equitable access and representation. Work within your networks and alongside your higher education partners to ensure that Black students have access to scholarships, culturally responsive advising, and social support.
Become a little more insightful when exposing students to opportunities. The current political climate demands us to introduce students to like-minded, discerning, people that are associated with access and success opportunities. Actions like
this will fortify both access and success efforts because all learning happens in concert with community.
Encourage students to pursue leadership roles. Many of the leaders highlighted here took charge of their own educational journeys. Advisors and educators should empower Black students to take on leadership positions in both professional
and extracurricular organizations, apply for fellowships, seek mentorship and networking opportunities. Building a community of support is essential to student persistence.
Conclusion
Black trailblazers in higher education have paved the way for today’s students, and it is up to all of us, advisors, counselors, and educators, to continue their legacy. By uplifting the stories of these leaders and others like them, advocating for Black
student success, and creating inclusive learning environments, we honor the past while building a stronger future for Black scholars.
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