On Wednesday, March 13, Senator Sonya Halpern (D-Atlanta) and Governor Brian P. Kemp hosted the fourth annual HBCU Heritage Day event. The public event honors the progress born from the state’s historically Black colleges and universities. Crowds gathered at 1:30PM at the steps of the Georgia state capitol to commemorate the contributions of HBCUs.
“Generation after generation, HBCUs play a vital role in elevating students’ socioeconomic status, helping develop future business, civil, community, and faith leaders,” said Senator Halpern in her remarks to attendees, which included students, school leaders, and other lawmakers.
The ten institutions honored at Wednesday’s event impact the lives of about 20,000 students every year. They are:
Albany State University
Clark Atlanta University
Fort Valley State University
Interdenominational Theological Center
Morehouse College
Morehouse School of Medicine
Morris Brown College
Payne College
Savannah State University
Spelman College
Georgia is tied with North Carolina for the second highest number of HBCUs in the nation, the first being Alabama with 14.
“These institutions served, in many times, as the only option for Black Georgians and Americans seeking skills and knowledge for success. Today, our HBCUs are the campus of choice for so many across our state, but also across our country, because of their rich legacy and culture, but also pathways to success. We are proud Georgia has played such a large role in that legacy,” said Governor Kemp.
