James Hillhouse HBCU Initiative

With college degrees becoming increasingly necessary, exposure to college institutions has become a must for young black youth. Since beginning work with students on the college planning and application process, I realized that there was a substantial desire to be exposed to post-secondary school options out-of-state. More specifically, students expressed interest in the academic offerings at historically black colleges and universities. As a product of the New Haven Public School system, and a proud alumnus of Morehouse College, I am invested in educating students about the history, culture, and benefit to receiving an education from an HBCU. My aim is to ensure that our students are equipped with the knowledge to make an informed college choice in pursuit of a higher level of academic and professional success. It is because of this that the continuance of our out-of-state HBCU College Tour has been granted. With approval from their teachers, 30 students will gain approval to take a week-long college tour of nearby HBCUs. These students will meet with admissions counselors, learn about the history and importance of HBCUs, and be able to interact with educational communities that — despite their belief — are well within reach.

With the various cuts in the State’s budget funding this trip has become arduous for our school. While we are excited to provide this opportunity to current James Hillhouse High School upperclassmen, the financial burden is immense. Despite (some) school funding, partial funding from the students, and a school fundraiser, we are still in need of funds to make this trip a success. It is with this in mind that I come to you to help make this possible. The Hillhouse HBCU Tour Committee is asking for donations, with the intent to expand their exposure, provide non-traditional academic experiences, and diversify their college choices. This trip has the potential to change the trajectory of a young student’s life, and we hope this is work that you are willing to  to support.

This past school year’s efforts allowed students to visit 8 nearby HBCU’s, including: Hampton University, Norfolk State University, Morgan State University, Howard University, and more. They also attended the University of Maryland Eastern Shore’s 16th Annual Tri-County College Fair, which hosted over 100 colleges and university representatives. In total, Hillhouse students received over 200 acceptances from various HBCUs; there has been an 100% increase from 2017 to 2018 of senior students enrolling in HBCUs due to expanded student exposure and community collaboration.

Your donations will go completely towards the direct costs of the trip including travel and lodging. Anything you would be willing to give is appreciated by myself and the young people anticipating this event. Thank you for supporting the James Hillhouse High School and the HBCU Initiative.