Fostering Innovation for HBCUs
The HBCU Innovative Solutions Initiative brings together HBCU leaders and allies to identify transformative solutions to the biggest challenges facing HBCUs nationwide. Through the Innovative Solutions Initiative, we’ve identified four inspiring ideas that we are developing for launch. Your support will help turn these visions into reality.
Why contribute?
Your tax-deductible donation will directly impact the success of these innovators by providing:
HBCU Day Of Giving
The HBCU Day of Giving Program is an annual fundraising and marketing campaign designed to ensure the financial sustainability and continued success of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The program was developed by Connie Cochran, an HBCU alum with 25 years of experience in alumni relations at Texas Southern University (TSU). Following a successful pilot campaign conducted at TSU in February 2024, a nonprofit organization will be established to launch the project nationwide, later this year.
Strategic Industry Guidance Network for Academic Learning (SIGNAL)
The Strategic Industry Guidance Network for Academic Learning (SIGNAL) was developed by Dr. D’Wayne Edwards, President of Pensole Lewis College of Business and Design in Detroit, as an initiative to better prepare students with the skills, networks, and knowledge to succeed in their chosen field. SIGNAL Institute will immerse professors in industry-aligned training, providing year-round coaching and support. Beginning in the summer of 2024, Pensole is slated to welcome its first cohort of educators.
Future Nurses
Dr. Manju Bhat, Dean of Arts and Sciences, Business, and Education at Winston Salem State University, has proposed a comprehensive program to address low retention rates among pre-nursing students, particularly BIPOC and low-income students. Future Nurses seeks to create a more equitable pathway for aspiring nursing students—incorporating near-peer mentorship, targeted online modules, and improved advisory and teaching practices.
Dr. Von Homer- Human Movement Institute
The Human Movement Institute is a groundbreaking initiative developed by Dr. Von Homer, Assistant Professor of Public & Allied Health Sciences at Delaware State University, that connects companies and business leaders with Subject Matter Experts (SMEs) at HBCUs, fostering a mutually beneficial, collaborative environment. A recent pilot project with KURU Footwear demonstrated the potential of this model, providing valuable insights and recommendations for the company going forward.