HBCU History
Established in 1856 in Ohio, this was the first HBCU owned and operated by African Americans.
Wilberforce University
Founded in 1865 in Raleigh, North Carolina, this university was the first HBCU established in the South and is home to the Bears.
Shaw University
She’s known as the first Black woman Vice President of the United States — and a Howard grad.
Kamala Harris
I research food safety, nutrition, and how to make products taste good and stay fresh. Who am I?
Food Scientist
Salary: $65K–$135K/year
School: 4–6 years
I repair engines, brakes, and electrical systems in cars and trucks. Who am I?
Automotive Technician / Mechanic
Salary: $34K–$81K/year
Training: 1–2 years
During the civil rights era, students from this North Carolina HBCU sparked national attention with the 1960 Woolworth sit-ins.
North Carolina A&T State University (NCAT)
Founded in 1867 by nine formerly enslaved men in Montgomery, Alabama, this HBCU is known for its Hornets marching band and proud legacy in teacher education.
Alabama State University
This actor, a Howard graduate, portrayed both Thurgood Marshall and Black Panther.
Chadwick Boseman
I investigate, research, and write to tell the truth about current events. I might be on TV, in print, or online — but credibility is my superpower. Who am I?
Journalist
Salary: $35K–$160K+/year
School: 4 years
I clean teeth, check gums, and help patients with oral health in a dentist’s office. Who am I?
Dental Hygienist
Salary: $66K–$120K+/year
School: 2–3 years
Which act signed in 1965 officially provided federal funding for HBCUs?
The Higher Education Act
This Nashville, Tennessee HBCU is home to the world-famous Jubilee Singers, whose historic tours raised money to build the school’s first buildings.
Fisk University
This Nobel Prize–winning author earned her English degree from Howard University, helped shape Black literature with novels like Beloved and The Bluest Eye, and later taught creative writing at Princeton University—where one of her students was future philanthropist MacKenzie Scott (formerly Bezos). Who is she?
Toni Morrison
I track diseases, analyze data, and help prevent outbreaks. When the world talks about pandemics, my research helps save lives. Who am I?
Epidemiologist
Salary: $57K–$135K/year
School: 6–8 years
I use ultrasound to create images of organs and tissues to help doctors diagnose conditions. Who am I?
Ultrasonographer / Diagnostic Medical Sonographer
Salary: $65K–$123K/year
School: 2–4 years
Founded in 1866 in Nashville to educate newly freed Black Americans, this university became world-famous thanks to its Jubilee Singers.
Fisk University
This all-women’s HBCU in Greensboro, North Carolina was founded in 1873 by formerly enslaved people and the Methodist Episcopal Church. Its motto is “Educate a Woman, Empower a Nation.”
Bennett College
He earned his BA at Lincoln University and law degree at Howard before becoming the first Black U.S. Supreme Court Justice.
Thurgood Marshall
I build brands, lead campaigns, and use storytelling to connect people with products or movements. Creativity meets strategy in my world. Who am I?
Marketing Director / Brand Strategist
Salary: $120K–$240K+/year
School: 4–6 year
I guide pilots safely through the skies from a tower or radar room. Who am I?
Air Traffic Controller
Salary: $76K–$210K+/year
Training: 2–4 years
The first HBCU was founded in 1837 in Pennsylvania — what is its name?
Cheyney University of Pennsylvania
This North Carolina school’s mascot is an eagle, and their motto is “Truth and Service.”
North Carolina Central University
This educator and activist attended Tuskegee Institute, where her passion for social justice first began to take shape. A proud member of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc., she later became a college professor and humanitarian. She was also married to one of the most prominent leaders of the civil rights era, continuing his legacy through her work in education and advocacy. Who is she?
Betty Shabazz
I assist physicians in the operating room by monitoring patients and adjusting anesthesia to keep them safe during surgery. I can begin my career as a Nurse or Respiratory Therapist before advancing into this specialty. Who am I?
Anesthesiologist Assistant
Salary: $140K–$300K+/year
School: 6–8 years
I install and repair heating, cooling, and refrigeration systems. Who am I?
HVAC Technician
Salary: $39K–$91K/year
Training: 1–2 years