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“Why HBCUs and Trades Are Shaping the Future of Education”

HBCUs have always welcomed students of all races and backgrounds. But for Black students looking for an education that honors their heritage, provides robust academic training, supports athletes holistically, and opens doors through career and technical education, these institutions have never been more relevant.

Published

1 year ago

April 1, 2025

Oakland Post

As the national debate over diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) policies intensifies, Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are emerging as a vital refuge and launchpad for Black students and students of color across the country. With many predominantly white institutions (PWIs) now dismantling or limiting DEI initiatives—and even eliminating merit scholarships tied to those programs—HBCUs are experiencing a moment of resurgence. This is more than a shift in enrollment trends; it is a renewed recognition of the cultural, academic, and societal significance of institutions built by and for the Black community.

For over a century, HBCUs have been pillars of empowerment, producing generations of leaders, educators, scientists, artists, and activists. These institutions were founded out of necessity, during a time when Black Americans were denied access to higher education. Today, they remain essential—not just for historical reasons, but because they continue to nurture and protect students in ways that many PWIs struggle to do.

This moment is especially critical. Across the country, states are enacting legislation that restricts or completely eliminates DEI programming at public universities. As a result, many PWIs are rolling back scholarships and support programs that were created to level the playing field for underrepresented students. In states like Florida, Texas, and Idaho, laws have been passed to dismantle DEI offices, eliminate race-conscious admissions policies, and restrict academic discussions about systemic racism. These actions, while politically charged, have real consequences for students who rely on those programs for both financial aid and a sense of belonging.

HBCUs are stepping in to fill the gap. Applications to schools like Morehouse College, Howard University, Hampton University, and Spelman College are surging. These institutions offer more than just degrees—they offer safe spaces where students can learn and grow without the burden of constantly explaining or defending their identity. For many students, especially Black athletes who are beginning to question their value in schools where they’re cheered on the field but ignored in academic or cultural spaces, HBCUs represent a place where excellence is expected, celebrated, and supported.

The renewed interest in HBCUs is not just symbolic. It’s practical. Many of these schools are investing in infrastructure, improving academic programs, and expanding scholarship opportunities to accommodate the growing interest. In recent years, federal and private funding for HBCUs has also increased, helping them modernize facilities, hire top-tier faculty, and strengthen their endowments. It’s clear that these institutions are not only surviving—they are thriving.

Athletes, in particular, should take note of this momentum. For too long, many talented Black athletes have been funneled into PWIs that benefit enormously from their skill on the court or the field, yet often fail to provide them with holistic support off it. HBCUs, with their long legacy of producing top athletes and their deep-rooted cultural alignment, offer a powerful alternative. With increased media attention and NIL (Name, Image, Likeness) opportunities now available to all student-athletes, there’s never been a better time for top talent to consider building their legacy at an HBCU.

But it’s not just about athletics or traditional four-year degrees. Another vital role HBCUs are playing—one that must be emphasized in this moment—is their growing focus on trades and workforce development. In an economy where skilled labor is in high demand and college debt continues to burden many young adults, training in trades like HVAC, electrical work, information technology, digital media, healthcare, and advanced manufacturing is becoming just as valuable as a traditional liberal arts education.

Many HBCUs have launched or expanded workforce development programs that provide certifications, apprenticeships, and partnerships with local industries. These programs are especially crucial for students who may not be interested in a four-year path but still want to secure a stable, well-paying career. They are also a powerful tool in addressing the racial wealth gap by equipping Black communities with the skills needed to compete and thrive in today’s labor market.

Workforce development is about dignity, sustainability, and access. HBCUs understand that success looks different for every student, and they are embracing that by providing multiple pathways to economic mobility. Whether it’s through nursing programs, construction trades, cybersecurity, or entrepreneurial training, HBCUs are expanding their reach—and impact—well beyond the classroom.

As we navigate this politically and socially charged era in higher education, HBCUs stand tall as institutions of excellence, resilience, and empowerment. They are not relics of the past—they are the blueprints for a better future. It’s time for students, families, athletes, and educators to recognize the importance of HBCUs and invest in the communities and institutions that have always invested in us.

— Anthony Tilghman

Award-Winning Photojournalist, Education Advocate

Oakland Post

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NFL: Week Two Recap | Jalen Hurts did not fold; Caleb Williams exits game with injury

Philadelphia Eagles quarterback Jalen Hurts found Darius Cooper with nine seconds left for the game winning touchdown as his team beat the Tennessee Titans 24-20 in Nashville. Hurts finished the day 26/37 for 264 yards. He threw for two touchdowns and two interceptions. Prior to the final drive, the Eagles ran 25 plays for 45 […]
The post NFL: Week Two Recap | Jalen Hurts did not fold; Caleb Williams exits game with injury appeared first on BlackPressUSA.

Published

1 week ago

September 20, 2026

Oakland Post

Prior to the final drive, the Eagles ran 25 plays for 45 yards. During the final drive Hurts went 6-8 with 61 passing yards and the touchdown. Titans defensive tackle — and team captain — Jeffery Simmons said this week that the way to defend Jalen Hurts is to make him “play quarterback.”

Hurts said to Simmons after today’s game: “You started that sh**. I had to finish it.”

Running back Saquon Barkley suffered a stinger in the first half but he ultimately finished the game. He had four carries and nine yards and one catch for eleven yards. He will get an MRI for his injury, but admitted to Cameron Wolfe of the NFL Network he was fine.

Caleb Williams leaves game against Vikings with apparent lower-body injury

Chicago Bears quarterback Caleb Williams was helped off the field with a right leg injury with 7:42 remaining in the fourth quarter. Williams was down, writhing in pain after scrambling to his left. After departing the injury tent, Williams raised his right fist, acknowledging the crowd while expressing his frustration. Testing will commence on Monday to find out more details about his injury.

“We’ll know tomorrow,” Johnson admitted regarding Williams’ injury. “He’s in good spirits. He’s a team player.”

Williams finished the day with 138 passing yards and one interception.

“I’m actually happy it’s nothing with the knee — that was my first inclination,” Johnson said. “But, a hamstring could be pretty damaging as well. So, we’ll see. We’ll see how bad it is tomorrow and we’ll go from there.”

Bryce Young once again dominated the Falcons

Carolina Panthers quarterback Bryce Young is 5-1 against the Atlanta Falcons and is undefeated at Mercedes-Benz Stadium. Today, Young threw for 287 yards and three touchdowns as he led the Panthers to a 34-3 dismembering of the Atlanta Falcons. Georgia Tech alumnus Darren Waller caught two touchdowns and linebacker Devin Lloyd returned one of his two interceptions for a touchdown.

Cooper Rush started his second straight game for the Falcons and it did not go well. The partisan crowd voiced their displeasure after Rush completed 10/17 passes for 86 yards and two interceptions. Jack Strand entered the game for Rush prompting cheers from the Falcons fans. The rookie threw a pick-six on his first career pass attempt. Strand was the first QB to accomplish that feat since Sam Darnold in 2018 and is the first Falcons player to do that since Brett Favre in 1991. Strand finished the day with 59 passing yards and 16 rushing yards.

According to reports, quarterback Michael Penix, Jr. is expected to make his season debut this Thursday at the Green Bay Packers. His return should help the Falcons. They are the first team since the 2008 Rams to not run any plays in the red zone after the first two games to open a season.

The bright spots for the Falcons today were the Spelman College Jaguarettes performing with the Falcons cheerleaders and Florida A&M’s marching band, The Marching 100, also performed during halftime!

Jayden Daniels gets carted off after apparent arm injury

Washington Commanders quarterback Jayden Daniels appeared to injure his left elbow on the final play of the first half in his game against the Dallas Cowboys. During the play, Daniels got stepped on, braced himself for the fall, and his elbow bent the wrong way. Daniels draped a towel over his head as he exited the field on the cart.

He was later ruled out.

Daniels suffered a dislocated elbow to the same arm during week nine of last season against the Washington Commanders, which led to him being shut down for the remainder of the season.

The post NFL: Week Two Recap | Jalen Hurts did not fold; Caleb Williams exits game with injury appeared first on BlackPressUSA.

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The Complete Negotiation Framework — Every Stage, Every Tactic, Every Win

Master the complete vehicle-purchase negotiation framework with Roosevelt Gist and Roosevelt. Learn every stage, tactic, and win!
The post The Complete Negotiation Framework — Every Stage, Every Tactic, Every Win appeared first on BlackPressUSA.

Published

1 week ago

September 20, 2026

Oakland Post

Negotiation framework stages, tactics, and winning strategies from AutoNetwork

Roosevelt Gist and Roosevelt deliver the complete vehicle-purchase negotiation framework in Episode 8 of The Color of Our Money Is Green. This episode covers the three foundations of every effective negotiation, the full seven-stage negotiation sequence with exact language for every stage, and five of the most common dealership tactics with the specific response each one requires.
What You Learn in This Episode:
The three foundations that make every negotiation tactic work
The complete seven-stage car-buying negotiation sequence
Exact language for every stage of the dealership conversation
Five common dealership tactics — the turnover, the four-square, the packed payment, spot delivery, and forced add-ons — and how to counter each one
Why signing preliminary paperwork isn’t the same as signing the final contract
___________________________________________________________________
“The Color of Our Money Is Green: A Buyer’s Guide to What Cars Actually Cost” — stan.store/RGist
____________________________________________________________________
AutoNetwork helps serious car shoppers inspect any new vehicle online before walking into a dealership. I’m Roosevelt — I’ve been reviewing cars and shaping digital car buying and credit union auto leasing since before YouTube car reviews existed.
You’ll find detailed walkaround reviews, POV test drives, and buyer-focused breakdowns covering comfort, space, features, and real-world value.

How to use the channel:
Watch the walkaround of the car you’re considering
Visit AutoNetwork.com for the full review
Check CouponsOffersAndDeals.com for current dealer specials
Walk in already knowing what you want — and what it should cost

AutoNetwork.com
CouponsOffersAndDeals.com
Affiliate disclosure: some links earn a small commission at no cost to you and help support the channel. Insta360 is one of those partners.

The post The Complete Negotiation Framework — Every Stage, Every Tactic, Every Win appeared first on BlackPressUSA.

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Mazda CX-90 Luxury: Heated Seats & Premium Comfort! #shorts

Stay toasty in the CX-90! Plush Nappa leather, heated/ventilated seats, and a memory-equipped heated steering wheel deliver ultimate luxury.
The post Mazda CX-90 Luxury: Heated Seats & Premium Comfort! #shorts appeared first on BlackPressUSA.

Published

1 week ago

September 20, 2026

Oakland Post

Mazda CX-90 interior with heated seats offering premium comfort.

Experience ultimate comfort in the CX-90. Nappa leather, heated/ventilated seats, 8-way power adjustments, and memory settings for both front passengers. The heated steering wheel with memory tilt/telescope adds premium convenience.

Watch the full video: https://youtu.be/EH5A4eQ4ipY