By Kyra Purvis
Alabama, home to the largest number of historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) in the nation, plays a pivotal role in the ongoing narrative of Black excellence and activism. With 14 active HBCUs, the state stands as a testament to the enduring impact of these institutions.
Dr. D’Linell Finley, an adjunct professor at Alabama State University, highlighted the significant role student activism played during the civil rights movement. “The student activism on this campus in the 1960s made a real difference in calling attention to a lot of the injustices in this country, especially voting rights,” said Dr. Finley. He recalled how young Black students organized the Montgomery Bus Boycott, using the campus as a clandestine communication hub.
However, the path was fraught with challenges. College administrators often had to balance student interests while maintaining stability in the face of scrutiny from state leadership. “Balancing the student interest vs. offering some sense of stability to the white state leadership who were looking at these institutions and making sure that they did not get too far out of line,” Finley said.
The creation of the board of trustees in the late 1970s marked a turning point, allowing HBCU advocates to address the unique needs of these campuses. “The board of trustees could look at the unique needs of this campus and then make the appeal to the policymakers, legislatures, governor,” Finley explained.
Despite these efforts, funding remains a critical issue. A 2023 report by the U.S. Department of Education revealed a $12 billion shortfall in funds for some HBCUs. “HBCUs have enough resources to get by. Do they have all the resources they need? Probably not,” said Finley. “In an ideal situation, HBCUs would be able to meet infrastructure needs on time and pay their personnel comparable to others.”
Students like Landon Hale view these challenges as opportunities. “The people before us laid down and trailblazed for us to get to where we are now,” Hale said. “If they were able to change the situation that they were in and still thrive, why can’t we?”
As discussions about diversity, equity, and inclusion continue nationwide, the future of HBCUs remains a topic of concern. “Will there be challenges? Will there be the need for struggle? Yes. But there’s always been challenges,” Finley said. “Our HBCUs still provide a big portion of individuals who go on to be doctors, lawyers, engineers. There is a need for HBCUs. We’re going to struggle, and we’re going to make it.”