4 Historically Black Colleges in Ohio: Shaping the Future of HBCUs

Ohio, renowned for being the birthplace of aviation and rock and roll, is also home to a rich legacy of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). These institutions have played a pivotal role in educating and empowering African Americans in the state and beyond.

1. Central State University

Founded in 1887 as the Wilberforce College of Industrial Arts in Xenia, Ohio, Central State University moved to its current location in Wilberforce in 1941. Central State is the largest HBCU in Ohio and the second-largest in the nation, with an enrollment of over 5,000 students.

The university offers a wide range of undergraduate and graduate programs in arts, sciences, education, and professional fields. Central State is particularly known for its strong programs in music, education, and STEM.

2. Wilberforce University

Established in 1856 by the African Methodist Episcopal Church, Wilberforce University is the oldest private HBCU in Ohio. It is located in Wilberforce, Ohio, adjacent to Central State University.

Wilberforce University offers undergraduate and graduate programs in liberal arts, education, divinity, and business. The university has a strong tradition of social activism and community engagement.

3. Ohio University Eastern

Ohio University Eastern is a regional campus of the larger Ohio University system, located in St. Clairsville, Ohio. The campus was established in 1970 and became an HBCU in 1993.

Ohio University Eastern offers undergraduate and graduate programs in arts, sciences, education, and business. The campus is particularly known for its strong programs in education and nursing.

4. The Ohio State University at Lima

Ohio State University at Lima is a regional campus of the larger Ohio State University system, located in Lima, Ohio. The campus was established in 1960 and became an HBCU in 2006.

Ohio State University at Lima offers undergraduate and graduate programs in arts, sciences, education, and business. The campus is particularly known for its strong programs in business and education.

The Impact of HBCUs in Ohio

HBCUs in Ohio have played a vital role in providing access to higher education for African American students, particularly during a time when other institutions denied them admission. These institutions have also been instrumental in preserving and celebrating African American culture and history.

According to the National Center for Education Statistics, HBCUs in Ohio account for:

• 23% of African American students enrolled in higher education in the state
• 15% of bachelor's degrees awarded to African American students in the state
• 11% of master's degrees awarded to African American students in the state

Challenges and Opportunities for HBCUs in Ohio

Like other HBCUs across the nation, those in Ohio face a number of challenges, including:

• Limited financial resources
• Declining enrollment
• Competition from other institutions
• Lack of diversity among faculty and staff

Despite these challenges, HBCUs in Ohio have shown a strong commitment to serving their students and communities. They have implemented a variety of initiatives to address the challenges they face, including:

• Increasing scholarships and financial aid
• Expanding online learning programs
• Promoting diversity and inclusion
• Partnering with businesses and community organizations

The Future of HBCUs in Ohio

The future of HBCUs in Ohio is bright. These institutions have a long and proud history of providing access to higher education for African American students, and they continue to play a vital role in the state's educational landscape.

As the state's population becomes increasingly diverse, HBCUs will be well-positioned to meet the needs of a changing student body. These institutions are also well-equipped to address the challenges facing higher education in the 21st century, such as the rising cost of tuition and the need for more online learning opportunities.

With continued support from the state government, businesses, and community organizations, HBCUs in Ohio will continue to thrive and provide a high-quality education to generations of students.

Table 1: Enrollment at HBCUs in Ohio

Table 2: Degrees Awarded by HBCUs in Ohio

Table 3: Challenges Facing HBCUs in Ohio

Table 4: Initiatives to Address Challenges Facing HBCUs in Ohio