Hundreds of Kentucky students learning about opportunities at Historically Black schools

LOUISVILLE, Ky. (WDRB) -- Hundreds of students are learning about opportunities for education at Kentucky's Historically Black colleges and universities.

The Showcase of HCBUs was held Thursday at the Kentucky International Convention Center in downtown Louisville.

The statewide event brought in JCPS students, as well as, high schoolers from Lexington, Owensboro, and more.

Andrea Houston helped organize the event. She said they have not been able to host this showcase in person since 2019.

"It is very important for kids to have access to opportunities and historically Black colleges and universities that are really producing the product," Houston said. "And you know when it comes to Black college alumni, HBCUs produce our top teachers, doctors, lawyers, and also the number one earners in higher education countries which are African American, and they go to a better life."

The showcase hosted more than 30 higher education establishments. Some of the participating colleges and universities included: Berea College, Miles College, Rust College, Kentucky State University, and Harris-Stowe State University.

Houston said many don't realize that HBCUs are diverse.

"If you look at our softball teams, our volleyball teams, there are children that are not African Americans. If you look at the football team that is diverse, you look at the different programs, so HBCUs are different and diverse where America so no one school can close the door to anybody," Houston said.

Houston said if you're interested in attending an HBCU, reach out to them directly or to the Louisville Urban League which can help you get connected.

YMCA Black Achievers Program, several sororities, the Organization of Black Aerospace Professionals, The LINKS, In., and GOV-KY Army National Guard also attended.

"It makes me grateful. I'm just grateful to all of our sponsors. I'm grateful to the community to JCPS and all of the counties that are coming," Houston said. "I'm just grateful that the kids are ready to get back to being engaged in our regular society."

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