African American Access to Higher Education: The Evolving Role of Historically Black Colleges and Universities

Faced with numerous obstacles, HBCUs have often been lightning rods for criticism. Opponents of the Black college model criticize the integrity of its academic programs, particularly in light of the challenges of a new millennium. The recurring question remains: is the need for historically Black colleges and universities as pressing today as was the case a century prior? If so, how might these institutions be adequately supported in their mission to educate African American students in the twenty-first century? This article argues that, despite the impediments they face, HBCUs continue to play a critical role today.