Drop Us A Line….

Building bridges that connect students to historically Black colleges and universities takes dedication, collaboration, and vision. This powerful conversation between Dr. Monique Robinson and board member Leon Frye unveils the critical work happening in San Antonio and beyond to create pathways for young scholars to discover HBCUs.

At the heart of their discussion is the formation of the South Texas HBCU Alumni Alliance – a collaborative initiative bringing together graduates and supporters from various institutions to amplify their collective impact. "It's more strength if more people have it," explains Dr. Robinson, highlighting how even smaller alumni chapters gain significant influence when working together. This alliance aims to move beyond social gatherings to create meaningful advocacy opportunities that directly benefit students.

The episode showcases the upcoming State Fair Classic weekend celebrating the 100th anniversary matchup between Grambling State University and Prairie View A&M. This iconic event draws over 50,000 attendees annually and features concerts, the legendary Battle of the Bands, and networking opportunities. Leon details an all-inclusive bus trip package designed to bring San Antonio residents to experience this cultural touchstone while supporting HBCU advocacy efforts locally.

Perhaps most compelling is their honest conversation about the decreasing exposure many students have to HBCUs in their schools. "I got exposed to it because I had older cousins that went to Grambling or went to Southern," shares Leon, emphasizing how critical these personal connections are. The "Scholars on the Move" program addresses this gap by providing 7th-12th grade students with HBCU knowledge, financial literacy education, and mentorship throughout the academic year.

Ready to join this movement? Applications are open for the Scholars on the Move program, board positions are available for those wanting to contribute their expertise, and the State Fair Classic bus trip welcomes all who wish to experience HBCU culture firsthand. Connect with us through our social platforms or website to become part of this growing community dedicated to student success.

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Drop Us A Line….

The bittersweet milestone of college move-in day takes center stage as two remarkable HBCU freshmen share their first weeks on campus at North Carolina A&T and Florida A&M University. Through candid conversations with students and their parents, we witness the emotional journey of families embracing this transformative chapter.

Devon, now proudly wearing the blue and gold at NC A&T, offers a glimpse into authentic campus life - from the synchronized yellow shirts of marching band members to the cultural phenomenon of "Fried Chicken Wednesdays" where students showcase their best outfits while building community. His mother shares invaluable wisdom about navigating the application process, emphasizing the critical importance of meeting early action deadlines and staying organized with transcripts, essays, and scholarship applications.

Meanwhile, Ayden Glover brings a powerful legacy perspective as a fourth-generation FAMU Rattler with an astonishing 4.8 high school GPA. Having already achieved two childhood dreams - becoming a national cheer champion and class valedictorian - she's now pursuing her third goal: becoming the first female president. During move-in, her parents couldn't resist pointing out campus landmarks from their own college days, creating a beautiful continuity between generations.

Both students candidly discuss the universal freshman challenges of time management, navigating sprawling campuses, and establishing independence. From sprinting between classes with just 15 minutes to spare to figuring out meal schedules around academic commitments, they're learning valuable life skills alongside their formal education.

These inspiring young scholars are part of the Takisha A. Davis scholarship program's top 20 finalists. Want to help determine who advances to the final round? Cast your vote by September 5th to support these exceptional students as they continue their academic journeys at America's Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

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Drop Us A Line….

The college transition marks a pivotal moment for students and their families—a bittersweet blend of excitement, anxiety, and profound change. In this heartfelt episode, we witness the beautiful, sometimes emotional journey of exceptional young scholars who've reached our scholarship competition's top 20 while simultaneously beginning their HBCU experiences across the country.

From Howard University's historic campus to "the highest of seven hills" at Florida A&M to Tuskegee's rich traditions, these students share their first impressions of college life with remarkable candor. We surprise them with virtual visits from their parents, creating touching moments that reveal the complex emotions behind this major life transition. One mother perfectly captures the parental challenge: "We've been the director of their lives forever. Right now we have to be part of the audience and let them create their own story."

The episode showcases the unique value of the HBCU experience through multiple perspectives. Legacy student Kaylee follows her mother's footsteps at Howard, while Mayanna seeks cultural connection after years at predominantly white schools. Meanwhile, Kamara brings her incredible academic achievements—four associate degrees earned during high school—to Tuskegee's accelerated program. Through their stories, we witness how these institutions provide not just education but belonging, tradition, and connection to a powerful legacy of Black excellence.

These scholars represent extraordinary potential. Whether adjusting to campus life 13 hours from home, navigating new academic challenges, or simply learning to handle the southern heat, they approach each obstacle with determination and optimism. Their parents' pride shines through every conversation, balancing natural worry with deep faith in their children's capabilities.

As our scholarship competition continues toward selecting our finalists, we invite you to support these remarkable young people by voting before September 5th. Their journeys are just beginning, but their futures—like the traditions of the institutions they've chosen—shine brilliantly with promise.

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