How do HBCUs preserve customs and traditions?

I've read a lot about the rich traditions at HBCUs, and as I'm thinking about where to apply, I'm curious about how these institutions maintain their unique customs year after year. Can students or alumni share examples of customs that you feel really define your HBCU's spirit and community?

Hi there! HBCUs often offer rich cultural experiences that are interwoven into campus life. One of the most striking traditions is the Homecoming celebration. It's quite the event with parades, alumni gatherings, and of course, the Homecoming football game. There's an energy and pride that's palpable and extends beyond current students to alumni and the local community.

Another tradition is the 'Call to Chapel' where students and staff come together for shared experiences, reflecting both spiritual grounding and a sense of community. There are also various student-led heritage events and speaker series that honor the legacy of HBCUs and their role in Black history.

There's a concerted effort by the institutions to foster an environment where these traditions are not just observed, but where students are actively encouraged to take part and carry them forward. These experiences are integral to student life and seem to instill a strong sense of identity and kinship among the student body. They are enriching for students, not just academically but culturally as well.

I’d encourage you to check out specific events and customs unique to the HBCUs you're interested in to get a better feel for how they celebrate their heritage and community spirit!