What is the disconnect between HBCU students and administration?
In the wake of events occurring at Howard University, it is time to have a conversation about the universal problem between students and administration.
For a little over a month, students at Howard have been protesting and demanding better conditions in their student-living dorms. The student-led protests went on for over a month, finally ending in an agreement with the administration to take action and make the necessary changes. This movement has not only grabbed the media’s attention but has sparked conversations all over the country. Problems such as funding and infrastructure are just a few of the nationwide issues that Historically Black Colleges experience every day.
When I first read that the students’ demands were finally being met, I was relieved yet concerned. Relieved that students were finally being heard and needs were going to be met, but concerned as to why so long? Why did it take a month for the administration to respond and finally reach common ground?
The truth is, when it comes to on-campus issues, silence from administration and staff is very common. From my experience and discussions with fellow HBCU students, there is a disconnect with administrators. These disconnections can vary from lack of urgency to situations, staff’s little to no empathy for students, to poor communication. While these are just a few problems to name, I am positive it can be fixed for future generations to come.
“We did not come to fear the future. We came here to shape it.” -Barack Obama
Our black colleges and universities are jewels to our communities. They tell a significant story about our resilience as a culture and people. As a current student at an HBCU, I adore my institution and I am so proud of the legacy and significance it holds in history. I know there is so much to be done, but I am optimistic about the future of all black colleges and universities.
