Response to Racism: How Historically Black College and University Enrollment Has Been Impacted by an Uprising of Racialized Incidents

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 30
  In Roundtable Session: Racism and Racial Aggression in Trump's America

Abstract

Over the past three years, a small number of HBCUs have experienced record increases in applications and enrollments. Anecdotal information credits racial tensions, the political climate under the Trump administration, and what HBCU President Walter M. Kimbrough calls the “Missouri Effect,” the recent surge in racial-based harassment of Black students at predominantly White institutions for the enrollment resurgence. This study explores if, and how, these events have contributed to the increase. Using a qualitative approach, 80 students were interviewed across several HBCUs of different sizes, missions, and designations. Findings from this study provides implications for practice, theory, and subsequent research on college choice, enrollment, retention, and inclusive campus climate for minoritized students

Authors

• Janelle L. Williams, Rutgers University

• Robert Terry Palmer, Binghamton University - SUNY