January Newsletter

Written By Kemryn Lawrence

A Message from Our Executive Director

Dear ProjectHBCU Family,

As we step into another impactful season, we want to take a moment to express our gratitude for your support. Whether you are a student, parent, volunteer, or donor, your dedication fuels our mission to create pathways to higher education and break the cycle of educational inequity. In this newsletter, we will highlight the progress of our initiatives, upcoming events, and a critical issue affecting Black students and students of color in education today. Together, we continue striving toward a brighter future!

Higher Education Spotlight: The Rising Cost of College and Its Impact on Black Students

Higher education remains a crucial pathway to economic mobility and career success, but the rising cost of college tuition presents a significant barrier, particularly for Black students. According to the National Center for Education Statistics (NCES, 2022), the average annual tuition at public four-year institutions has increased by 31% over the past decade. For many Black students, who are disproportionately affected by economic disparities, this increase makes college accessibility more challenging.

The Debt Crisis Among Black College Students

Black college students are more likely to take on student loans and graduate with higher debt than their white counterparts. The Education Data Initiative (2023) reports that Black graduates carry an average student loan debt of $52,000—significantly higher than the national average. This financial burden not only impacts their ability to accumulate wealth but also affects mental health and career choices.

The Role of HBCUs in Supporting Black Students

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have played a vital role in providing affordable and high-quality education to Black students. Institutions such as Howard University, Spelman College, and North Carolina A&T State University offer financial aid programs and scholarships tailored to ease the economic burden on students. However, despite their crucial role, HBCUs remain underfunded compared to predominantly white institutions (PWIs).

Call to Action: What Can Be Done?

  • Advocate for Student Loan Reform: Support policies that reduce the student debt burden, such as income-driven repayment plans and student loan forgiveness.

  • Increase Scholarship and Grant Opportunities: Organizations, alumni, and businesses can contribute to scholarship funds to support students in need.

  • Support HBCUs: Increased investment in HBCUs ensures they have the resources to continue providing quality education and financial assistance to students.

  • Encourage Financial Literacy Programs: Teaching students how to manage their finances before and during college can help reduce reliance on loans.

(Sources: National Center for Education Statistics, 2022; Education Data Initiative, 2023)

Upcoming Events & Fundraisers

📅 Give Butter Campaign
We have launched our Give Butter Campaign with a goal of $3,000 to go towards our CAPP programming.

📅 Java Joes Fundraiser
Date: February 10 - February 28, 2024
Support ProjectHBCU through your love of coffee this winter season!

📅 Annual Summer Youth Leadership Series
Date: June 2024 | Virtual
Designed for middle and high school students, this series will empower young leaders through mentorship, civic engagement, and leadership development workshops.

Volunteer & Support Opportunities

Are you looking for ways to get involved with ProjectHBCU? We’re always in need of dedicated volunteers, mentors, and donors to support our mission. Here’s how you can help:

✅ Become a Mentor – Guide students through the college admissions process. ✅ Donate – Every contribution helps provide scholarships, college application assistance, and leadership training. ✅ Partner with Us – Schools, nonprofits, and businesses can collaborate to expand our reach.

📩 Contact us at info@projecthbcu.org to get started!

Thank You for Your Support!

Your commitment to educational equity is what makes ProjectHBCU’s work possible. Whether you’re a student striving for success, a parent seeking support, or a donor investing in the future, you are part of a powerful movement for change. Let’s continue making education accessible, equitable, and empowering for all!

With gratitude,
Kemryn J. Lawrence
Executive Director, ProjectHBCU

Stay connected with us on social media:

Kemryn Lawrence

ProjectHBCU (Helping Beautiful Children Unite) Overview

ProjectHBCU is a nonprofit organization dedicated to dismantling the K-12 School-to-Prison Pipeline by empowering marginalized youth, particularly Black and Brown students. Through a holistic and culturally relevant approach, ProjectHBCU reimagines how students from underfunded schools can access higher education and leadership opportunities. The organization’s mission is to uplift students by offering mentorship, leadership training, and college preparation, with a special focus on Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

Mission and Programs

At its core, ProjectHBCU aims to break cycles of incarceration and generational poverty by addressing the systemic issues that disproportionately impact students of color. The organization offers several key programs: 1.Youth Leadership Program: Equips students with essential skills, confidence, and the agency to become leaders in their communities. 2. Community Service & Civic Engagement: Encourages students to give back to their communities while learning the value of activism, collaboration, and service. 3. College Admissions Preparation (CAP) Program: Provides personalized college guidance, mentorship, and workshops to help students navigate the college application process. HBCU tours are a cornerstone of the CAP program, exposing students to educational institutions where they can thrive academically and culturally.

Our Impact

ProjectHBCU has seen tangible success in transforming students’ lives. In New Orleans, for example, 15 students from the first cohort were accepted into college, with five receiving full scholarships. The organization fosters a sense of belonging and leadership in students who have often felt disconnected from academic success. By pairing students with mentors, taking them on HBCU tours, and helping them build college portfolios, ProjectHBCU empowers students to become change agents in their communities.

Our Vision

ProjectHBCU envisions a future where Black and marginalized students no longer see college as an unattainable goal but as a natural next step. Through mentorship, leadership development, and culturally affirming experiences, students are prepared not only to succeed academically but to return to their communities as leaders. By breaking down barriers, ProjectHBCU is creating pathways for generational success and community empowerment.

Innovative Approach

ProjectHBCU stands out by integrating technology and cultural relevance into its programs. Using AI-powered mentorship pairing, the organization connects students with mentors who share similar experiences, providing personalized guidance. In addition, virtual HBCU tours break geographic barriers, ensuring students from any location can explore these institutions. The focus on HBCUs as cultural sanctuaries where students can thrive sets ProjectHBCU apart from traditional college prep programs.

Partners and Community Engagement

ProjectHBCU has forged partnerships with key organizations like Clark Atlanta University, Spelman College, and the Future Foundation of Atlanta. These partnerships allow the organization to amplify its impact by reaching students who need support the most. ProjectHBCU is mobilizing current HBCU students and alumni, community leaders, and professionals to mentor students, advocate for the cause, and create a movement that prioritizes education, leadership, and opportunity for students who deserve to see their potential realized.

Through its innovative programs, deep community involvement, and a commitment to equity, ProjectHBCU is building a brighter future for marginalized students across the United States.

https://www.projecthbcu.org
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February Newsletter