Boston’s historic backdrop was infused with the energy of the HBCU experience this past weekend as President F. DuBois Bowman '92 traveled to the city for the Essence HBCU Classic. The event not only celebrated the culture and legacy of Historically Black Colleges and Universities but also sparked important conversations about strengthening connections between Boston and the nation’s HBCUs.
President Bowman met with Boston Mayor Michelle Wu, Massachusetts State Representative Brandy Fluker-Oakley, Morehouse alumnus John Matthew Borders III, Director of Tourism, Sports, and Entertainment for Boston, Segun Idowu, Boston’s Chief of Economic Opportunity and Inclusion, and other HBCU alumni and civic leaders.
They discussed ways Boston can build intentional pipelines with HBCUs and maintain connections with Boston students attending these institutions nationwide. The conversation highlighted opportunities for the city to invest in students and create lasting partnerships beyond graduation.
For Morehouse, and for HBCUs broadly, this type of engagement is essential. By strengthening relationships with cities like Boston, HBCUs can ensure that students not only excel academically but also remain connected to opportunities that allow them to lead and give back to their home communities.