Despite Decline In Black Male Enrollment At HBCUs, Benedict College Sets New Standard With 7% Increase In Recent Years – AfroTech

Black male enrollment at the Historically Black College and University (HBCU), Benedict College, is on the rise.

This counters overall data indicating that Black men’s enrollment at HBCUs has decreased. According to research from the American Institute for Boys and Men, 26% of Black men were enrolled in an HBCU in 2024, down from 38% in 1976.

However, Benedict College reports Black male enrollment between 42% and 48% over the last decade, and saw a 7% uptick in fall 2024 from its previous year, according to a statement from university President, Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis, via the United College Negro Fund (UNCF).

These outcomes are attributed to expanded STEM academic programming, the campus culture of empowerment and mentorship, and programming such as Barber Shop Talks, which introduces male students to mentorship from older male adults. The school also has partnerships with organizations such as 100 Black Men of America, which provide scholarships and mentorships. Additionally, on Tuesdays, students wear suits and ties to class, a practice intended to prepare them for the workforce.

“We are committed to providing pathways that ignite their passions and unlock their full potential. Benedict College has a concentrated commitment and focus on alumni mentorship and role modeling. Through our robust alumni network and dedicated faculty and staff, we have created a web of support that empowers our Black male students to envision and achieve their dreams,” Artis wrote per UNCF.

“As we continue to navigate the challenges of the post-pandemic world and the broader societal issues that have contributed to the decline in Black male enrollment, Benedict College remains steadfast in our commitment to being a beacon of hope and opportunity,” she added. “We are proud to be a shining example of what is possible when an institution truly prioritizes the success and empowerment of Black men. Our story is one of resilience, innovation, and a deep belief in the inherent worth and potential of our male students.”