By Ashley Brown
North Carolina Central University School of Law has announced a groundbreaking partnership with the U.S. Department of Housing and Urban Development. The initiative aims to enhance the university’s capacity to deliver Fair Housing courses while connecting law students with local and national fair housing organizations. The partnership will launch during the university’s Ultimate Homecoming Experience week, culminating in a significant event titled “Bringing Homes to Homecoming” on Oct. 24.
This collaboration will address bias and discrimination in the housing market, empowering NCCU law students to become future leaders in policy formation and litigation surrounding Fair Housing issues. As part of the initiative, a panel discussion will explore the historical context of racial discrimination. A particular focus will be on housing segregation, emphasizing the legacy of the historic Hayti community in Durham, where racial divisions remain prevalent.
“The NCCU School of Law is pleased to be the first institution to participate in this form of collaboration with the Department of Housing and Urban Development. We are hugely optimistic that great benefits will accrue to our law students and the broader community,” stated Dean Patricia Timmons-Goodson of the NCCU School of Law.
Diane Shelley, principal deputy assistant secretary at HUD, expressed her belief in Historically Black Colleges and Universities’ vital role in fostering a consciousness of social justice among students. “This initiative unfolds against the backdrop of a bustling campus, where students navigate the complexities of higher education while grappling with broader societal issues, including housing inequities and discrimination,” she said.
Education and Employment Opportunities
Through this partnership, NCCU students can access specialized fair housing training through HUD’s National Fair Housing Training Academy. The program hopes to deepen understanding of fair housing career paths and support current and prospective organizations.
Additionally, beginning in Spring 2025, students will have the opportunity to enroll in a new course, “Litigating Fair Housing Cases.” The course was developed collaboratively by NCCU and NFHTA. This course aims to expand students’ awareness and practical experience enforcing fair housing laws.
