HBCU & Future Success Edition

HBCU History

100

Established in 1856 in Ohio, this was the first HBCU owned and operated by African Americans.

Wilberforce University

200

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)

300

Which act signed in 1965 officially provided federal funding for HBCUs?

The Higher Education Act

400

Founded in 1866 in Nashville to educate newly freed Black Americans, this university became world-famous thanks to its Jubilee Singers.

Fisk University

500

The first HBCU was founded in 1837 in Pennsylvania — what is its name?

Cheyney University of Pennsylvania

Guess That HBCU

100

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

200

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

300

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

400

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

500

This North Carolina school’s mascot is an eagle, and their motto is “Truth and Service.”

North Carolina Central University

Famous HBCU Alumni

100

She’s known as the first Black woman Vice President of the United States — and a Howard grad.

Kamala Harris

200

This actor, a Howard graduate, portrayed both Thurgood Marshall and Black Panther.

Chadwick Boseman

300

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

400

He earned his BA at Lincoln University and law degree at Howard before becoming the first Black U.S. Supreme Court Justice.

Thurgood Marshall

500

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

Black Excellence in Professions

100

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

200

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

300

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

400

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

500

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

Vocational Professions

100

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

200

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

300

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

400

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

500

I install and repair heating, cooling, and refrigeration systems. Who am I?

HVAC Technician  
Salary: $39K–$91K/year  
Training: 1–2 years