Link Sharing: Multiple Resources on Trump Administration's HBCU Directive

Shared by Dr. Rochelle Ford, APR

In a move that underscores the complex higher education landscape in the U.S., the White House has established an initiative aimed at promoting excellence and innovation at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). This executive order seeks to enhance the capacity of HBCUs through increased private-sector partnerships, institutional development, and workforce preparation in high-growth industries.

Page has previously held conversations and sessions on the topic of leveraging HBCU partnerships. The below video, and corresponding presentations, are from our 2021 Annual Conference session "Building off the Momentum: Partnering with HBCUs." They highlight some key considerations for organizations looking to further their HBCU partnerships.

1. Make Partnership Intentional—and Multifaceted (Dr. Rochelle Ford, APR, CEO of Page, former Dean and Professor, School of Communications, Elon University)

Dr. Rochelle Ford's presentation outlines dozens of partnership opportunities, from paid internships and faculty development to digital literacy programs and case competitions​. The challenge posed to communicators: how can your strategy deepen through sustained, multidimensional collaboration?

Takeaway for communicators: Map your HBCU relationships against your organizational purpose. Then ask: are we showing up with intention—or just visibility?

2. Invest in Long-Term Trust (Dr. Bond Hopson, Assistant General Secretary, The Black College Fund, The United Methodist Church)

Dr. Bond Hopson emphasizes that real momentum comes from sustained presence, mutual learning, and respect. Highlighting examples from institutions like Claflin and Meharry Medical College, she encourages companies to approach partnerships with humility and accountability​.

Takeaway for communicators: Authentic engagement means showing up beyond campaign cycles. Help leadership understand that long-term trust earns long-term brand equity.

3. HBCU Collaboration Strengthens Talent and Brand (Dean Acosta, SVP & CCO, Lockheed Martin)

The data from Lockheed Martin points to real outcomes: 40% of early-career hires were people of color in 2020–21. But beyond hiring metrics, it underscores how investing in diverse pipelines and professional development helps shape inclusive employer brands​.

Takeaway for communicators: Use data and storytelling to connect your HBCU partnerships to business outcomes—diverse talent, cultural relevance, and innovation.