UNIVERSITY PARK, Pa. — A new book co-authored by Levon T. Esters, vice provost for graduate education, dean of the Graduate School at Penn State, and professor in the College of Agricultural Sciences, highlights the role that historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) play in empowering Black students, fostering economic development, building community, and mentoring leaders and activists.
The book, titled “HBCU: The Power of Historically Black Colleges and Universities,” was co-authored with Marybeth Gasman, Samuel DeWitt Proctor endowed chair in education and a distinguished professor at Rutgers University, and has been published through Johns Hopkins University Press.
Filled with extensive research and personal stories from current students, HBCU graduates and university presidents, among others, the book showcases how HBCUs have mentored generations of leaders and scholars, fostering a collaborative culture of success and empowerment. Highlighting the unique culture and identities of these universities, the text includes how these schools have shaped and propelled Black students into leadership and intellectual roles where they have a major impact on medicine, literature, law, higher education, art, sports, business and more.
Including more than 100 universities throughout the United States that develop and guide all students, regardless of race, HBCUs were defined by the Higher Education Act of 1965 as “any historically black college or university that was established prior to 1964, whose principal mission was, and is, the education of black Americans, and that is accredited by a nationally recognized accrediting agency or association determined by the Secretary [of Education] to be a reliable authority as to the quality of training offered or is, according to such an agency or association, making reasonable progress toward accreditation.”
This topic and these universities are meaningful for Esters, who graduated from two HBCUs, North Carolina A&T State University and Florida A&M University, and conducted extensive research on educational equity and access of marginalized and minoritized students. His research included a concentration on the mentoring needs of Black graduate students, career development for students in STEM who attend historically Black land-grant universities, and educational and professional mobility and development of Black graduate students and faculty.
“A lot of my identity as an individual was cultivated at those two HBCUs. They have a rich and long history of producing graduates who are prepared for almost anything, no matter the career endeavor,” he said, adding that he experienced growth in a multitude of areas, from how to be a leader, to the importance of giving back to one's community, to appreciation for the mission of land-grant universities, which both universities are.
Gasman’s research and expertise also can be connected to this book’s important topics. An experienced author, her areas of expertise include the history of American higher education, minority-serving institutions (with an emphasis on HBCUs), racism and diversity, fundraising and philanthropy, and higher education leadership.
"Those who read the book will come away truly understanding the power of these institutions, how they contribute to develop the spirit of mentorship in individuals, how they contribute to social and economic mobility of individuals, and the prominent role these institutions have had in cultivating leaders across all spectrums,” Esters added. “There have been a lot of books and pieces written on HBCUs, but this book really speaks to the power of these institutions and how important they are to our educational landscape.”
Esters and Gasman also discuss the challenges these universities face, from securing funding to accreditation.
“The No. 1 need is more funding so that these institutions can continue into the future,” Esters said. “In addition, support from our local, state and national governments can help to prop up these institutions and showcase the work they do and value they provide.”
"Many students of color want to attend school and be in spaces where they can see themselves reflected in the population,” Esters added. “There is a level of support and nurturing at these universities that is like no other.”
Throughout Esters’ career, he has continued to work with and support HBCU students. From recruiting and advising graduate students that came from HBCUs in roles at his previous institutions, to partnering with the universities on initiatives, that support is something that will continue with this book.
“It’s been powerful to be able to give back to the institutions, being able to support them and their work, recruit students from those institutions to places I’ve worked over the years, and see them grow and develop,” he said. “These are such powerful institutions, and they have a purpose.”
Those interested in learning more about the book and the topic of HBCUs are invited to attend a day of discussion with Esters, Gasman and a panel of guests in February. The event will include an enriching book talk and forum focused on establishing partnerships and strengthening ties with HBCUs. Fill out this interest form to be notified when more information is available.