Historically Black Colleges and Universities have for decades faced persistent funding inequities at both the state and federal levels. Research shows that HBCU students also experience especially high rates of basic needs insecurity.

The Hope Center for College, Community, and Justice and The Center for the Study of HBCUs will address these and other longstanding inequities through a new pilot project designed to build capacity and support at 10 HBCUs. 

Photo: Andy Alfaro 

Emmanuel “Manny” Escamilla grew up in a trailer park in south Modesto with a single mother battling a drug addiction. He often slept on the floor of the trailer next to his mother’s cot while they rented out their only room. 

As a student, Escamilla would often visit Starbucks or McDonald’s for the free internet connection to complete his homework. Today, the now-college graduate is using his time and talents to inspire disadvantaged youth in Modesto.

An Olympic champion is encouraging students to take the plunge—into STEM.

Katie Ledecky, a three-time Olympian and seven-time Olympic gold medalist swimmer, wants kids to get excited about science, technology, engineering, and math. A new educational initiative from Ledecky, Panasonic North America, and Discovery Education aims to provide resources and support to ignite their passion.