2024 HBCU Trip

Recently, a group of Brevard High School students participated in a Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) tour, sponsored by the Cornelius Hunt Memorial Endowment Fund. This was the second such tour facilitated by the Education Committee of the NAACP.

According to Education Committee Chair Sheila Mooney, “This experience was an opportunity for the participating African American students to connect with their heritage, explore their academic futures, witness “Black excellence” and gain a deeper understanding of the rich history and culture embedded in HBCUs. Twenty African American students and six chaperones embarked on an inspiring journey to several HBCUs in North Carolina.”

A’vonta Whitmire Jones stated, “The students visited prominent institutions, including Winston-Salem State University, North Carolina A&T State University, and North Carolina Central University. At each campus, they were welcomed with open arms by faculty and students. Each institution exhibited historic landmarks, state-of-the-art facilities, and vibrant student centers and resources, providing comprehensive views of what each university had to offer.”

Mooney added, “For many of these students, this trip was a transformative experience. It allowed them to see firsthand the supportive environment and strong sense of community that HBCUs provide. They were inspired by the academic excellence and cultural pride that permeates these institutions. This not only broadened their horizons but also reinforced the importance of pursuing higher education and the unique opportunities available at HBCUs.”

Student Zoey Whitmire stated, “This trip definitely made me feel more comfortable graduating from high school and choosing a college. Being able to experience this with my sister made it even better. Overall, this trip was a 9 out of 10! I hope many more students get to have this experience.”

The students also visited the North Carolina State Capital and North Carolina Legislative Building. They enjoyed dinner in the Rams Head Dining Hall on the UNC Chapel Hill Campus.

All participants agreed that the journey to North Carolina’s HBCUs was a significant milestone for these high school students. It opened their eyes to new possibilities and instilled a sense of pride and motivation to strive for success. This experience will undoubtedly leave a lasting impact on their education and personal growth, as they make important decisions about their future.

The students would like to thank the NAACP’s Education Committee and the Hunt Endowment, and their chaperones for making this trip possible: Sheila Mooney, Rebecca Wynn, Rhonda Waters, Rev. Frankie Gordon, Alex Boyd and Carl Mooney.

Chaperone Alex Boyd said, “I am thankful to be included on this trip. As someone who had previously attended NC A&T, I am grateful to have had the opportunity to revisit this beautiful campus with both of my daughters and share my experience with these students.”