Editorial – HBCUs Still in the Business of Recruiting Exceptional Students
Occasionally, we associate historically black colleges and universities with a certain segment of students. First-generation students, students who underperformed in high school but demonstrate a desire to receive higher education, etc.
But more often than we realize, some of the best students in the nation are targeting HBCUs to pursue their social and academic objectives. Here’s a fine example of a young woman in Detroit, who could have gained admission to nearly any college in the United States.
She is choosing between Howard University and Spelman College for enrollment this fall.
These days, Cheyenne Boyce is mulling many melodies.
The 17-year-old Cass Technical High School senior has been listening to classical recordings and constantly practicing her cello for an opportunity many musicians dream of: performing at New York’s Carnegie Hall.
This month, Boyce is set to join about 50 others from the Suzuki Royal Oak Institute of Music for a Manhattan Concert Productions series. But she won’t have any printed sheet music in front of her. When the Detroiter is onstage, she’ll play each piece from memory, as is standard. “It’s been difficult memorizing everything,” Boycesaid. “It’s definitely challenging, but I’m working really hard at it. … I’m so excited.”
No; it doesn’t hurt that Boyce is a recipient of the Tom Joyner Foundation ‘Full Ride Scholarship’ which ensures all expenses paid to a recipient attending an HBCU. But were Boyce not drawn to the academic and cultural benefits of attending such an institution, I’m sure a Michigan TWI would have had no issues securing funding for a minority student with such notable qualities.
When alumni, students and faculty partner to engage future college students, the results can be lasting and deep. Students coming out of high school want to know that they will have a place in whichever college they choose. They want to ensure independence, safety, fun, and career development. This is particularly true for high achieving students, who likely have long term goals clearly mapped out and are just looking for an ideal place to excel.
HBCUs are academically competitive, socially rewarding institutions of higher learning. They are in the business of cultivating future leaders and role models for our communities. Many issues wait to be resolved on HBCU campuses, and many students don’t treasure the opportunity of attending an HBCU. But don’t let those stories or circumstances influence your support or belief in their mission.
I’m certainly glad Cheyenne Boyce hasn’t.
Photo Courtesy of the Detroit News.
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