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Tag: HBCU

  • DOE Cancels $350M in HBCU Grants

    Big news out of the U.S. Department of Education is sending shockwaves across campuses nationwide. The department has confirmed it’s slashing $350 million in federal grants that were allocated for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and other minority-serving institutions. While the DOE is calling it a “restructuring effort,” many HBCUs are feeling the sting of this decision, viewing it as a significant blow to vital programs.

    What’s Being Cut and Why?

    These cuts target crucial initiatives designed to bolster HBCUs, expand STEM education for underrepresented students, and provide essential institutional support for minority-serving colleges across the country. For many of these institutions, which often operate on tight budgets, losing this funding could mean serious disruptions to everything from classroom resources and lab equipment to the very programs students rely on.

    Secretary Linda McMahon and the Department of Education are framing this as a “re-envisioning” of how they support underserved students. However, critics, including lawmakers and student advocates, argue this perspective overlooks the real-world impact. These grants aren’t just numbers on a spreadsheet; they fund mentorship programs, faculty development, and access to technology that directly benefits thousands of students.

    The High Stakes for HBCUs

    For many HBCUs, these federal grants are the lifeline that keeps essential programs running. Unlike larger universities that might have deeper financial reserves, smaller institutions, many of which are HBCUs, may struggle to absorb such a significant funding shortfall. This could mean stalled STEM pipelines, fewer research opportunities, and a reduction in vital student support services.

    This decision comes at a time when HBCUs are gaining more visibility and recognition, yet still face numerous challenges. The DOE’s move threatens to undo years of progress in diversifying higher education and ensuring equitable access for marginalized students. Lawmakers like Senator Patty Murray have already voiced strong opposition, warning that the department is jeopardizing resources that Congress has historically championed.

    Student Impact and Future Actions

    The consequences for students could be immediate and profound. Reduced funding for tutoring, research facilities, internships, and scholarships translates directly into fewer opportunities for students to succeed. Faculty are concerned that program closures could negatively affect student retention rates and deter prospective students from enrolling.

    This situation adds yet another layer of pressure on HBCUs, which are already grappling with limited funding, rising operational costs, and recent security threats. The backlash is expected to continue, with potential congressional hearings and legislative efforts to restore the funding. While the Department of Education claims it will redirect resources, HBCU leaders are emphasizing the need for stable, consistent support to ensure these institutions can continue empowering the next generation.

    What are your thoughts on the Department of Education’s decision to cut HBCU grants? How do you think this will impact students and institutions? Share your perspective in the comments below!

  • FBI Investigates HBCU Threats: What You Need to Know

    Imagine getting an alert that your school is on lockdown. That’s the reality for students at several Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) this week, as a series of alarming threats forced campuses across the country to go into lockdown. It’s a scary situation that has understandably put many on edge, and thankfully, the FBI has been on the case.

    What the FBI Found So Far

    The Federal Bureau of Investigation has confirmed they are actively investigating these threats. While the calls caused significant disruption and fear, the FBI’s current assessment is that there is no evidence of a credible, immediate danger to students or staff. They believe these incidents are likely hoaxes, but that doesn’t make them any less serious.

    The FBI emphasized that even fake threats can cause immense chaos and trauma. They are working closely with state, local, and campus law enforcement agencies to monitor the situation and ensure schools remain vigilant. It’s a reminder that safety on campus is a top priority, and every threat, real or not, needs to be taken seriously.

    Which Campuses Were Affected?

    Several well-known HBCUs found themselves in the middle of this unsettling situation. Institutions like Spelman College, Hampton University, Southern University, Bethune-Cookman University, and Virginia State University had to implement lockdown procedures. This meant students had to shelter in place or evacuate certain areas until law enforcement could give the all-clear.

    Understandably, many of these schools canceled classes and other campus activities. The priority was, and always is, the safety and well-being of the students and faculty. It’s a difficult decision for any institution to make, but one that’s necessary when safety is a concern.

    Why This Matters

    The timing of these threats, occurring shortly after a high-profile school shooting involving conservative commentator Charlie Kirk, has naturally led to questions about potential connections. While the FBI has not indicated any link, the heightened climate of fear around educational institutions means that any threat, especially to historically significant places like HBCUs, is met with extreme concern.

    These incidents highlight the ongoing challenges of maintaining campus safety and the emotional toll that even hoax threats can take. It’s crucial for communities to support HBCUs and ensure they have the resources needed to protect their students and maintain a secure learning environment.

    What are your thoughts on the recent threats against HBCUs? Share your concerns and support in the comments below!

  • NC A&T Makes History: First HBCU with 15,000+ Students

    Get ready to celebrate some incredible news from the world of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)! North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (NC A&T) has just made history, becoming the very first HBCU to welcome over 15,000 students onto its campus. This isn’t just a number; it’s a testament to the university’s growing influence and commitment to excellence.

    A Record-Breaking Enrollment

    As the fall semester kicked off on August 20, 2025, NC A&T officially announced its record-breaking enrollment of 15,275 students. This marks a significant 6.7% increase from the previous year, showing a powerful upward trend. This surge isn’t limited to just one group; it’s a reflection of strong growth across the board, including first-year students, transfers, and even doctoral candidates.

    This academic year isn’t just about a new record; it’s about solidifying NC A&T’s position as a leader. For the 12th year in a row, it stands as the nation’s largest public HBCU, and for the fourth consecutive year, it’s the largest HBCU overall. That’s some serious staying power!

    A Commitment to Growth and Success

    Chancellor James R. Martin II expressed his gratitude, stating, “This is our 12th consecutive year of growth, and we continue to be humbled and grateful for the faith that our students place in us to prepare them for lives of meaning and success.” He highlighted NC A&T’s role in setting a national standard for public universities in the 21st century.

    The numbers tell an impressive story. North Carolina students are enrolling in greater numbers, with a 9.3% increase. Even more exciting is the graduate enrollment, which has now surpassed 2,000 students for the first time ever, showing an 11.2% jump. Doctoral programs are also booming, with a 23.4% increase, and transfer student enrollment is up by a solid 17%.

    Pioneering New Frontiers in Education

    NC A&T is not just growing; it’s innovating. The university is a powerhouse in STEM fields, particularly engineering, agriculture, and business. This semester, they’ve made another groundbreaking move by launching the state’s first bachelor’s degree program in Artificial Intelligence (AI) specifically at an HBCU. This program offers concentrations in advanced AI systems and applied AI, preparing students for the future of technology.

    A Legacy of Achievement

    Founded in 1890, NC A&T has a long-standing reputation for academic excellence and strong career outcomes. With 83.7% of graduates employed by graduation day and 95.3% finding employment within three months, the university is clearly delivering on its promise. Its impressive alumni roster includes luminaries like Rev. Jesse Jackson, Janice Bryant-Howroyd, and NASA astronaut Dr. Ronald McNair.

    Chancellor Martin emphasized the university’s commitment: “We embrace the opportunity to prepare them for a world undergoing seismic knowledge and technology shifts and to guide their development as individuals, ready for lives of achievement and meaning.”

    What do you think about NC A&T’s historic achievement? Share your thoughts on the importance of HBCUs in higher education in the comments below!

  • HBCUs Lock Down Amid Threats

    A wave of concern swept across several Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) this week as campuses were forced to close and implement lockdowns due to reports of ‘potential threats.’ Institutions including Virginia State University, Hampton University, Southern University and A&M College, and Alabama State University alerted their students and staff to remain indoors until further notice.

    Immediate Campus Shutdowns

    The safety alerts led to the immediate suspension of classes and all campus activities. Hampton University, for instance, extended its cancellations through Friday. Virginia State University publicly announced the situation via social media, stating, ‘VSU received a threat to our campus. Out of an abundance of caution, VSU remains on lockdown.’

    By early afternoon, officials confirmed that no injuries had been reported, but the lockdown measures remained in effect pending further updates. The university stressed the seriousness of the situation and urged everyone to follow safety directives, limiting movement to essential activities and staying vigilant for email communications.

    Widespread Concerns and Community Solidarity

    The threats were not isolated to one institution. Hampton, Southern, and Alabama State Universities also reported receiving messages concerning possible dangers on their grounds. These alerts prompted similar campus-wide shutdowns and cancellations, with safety being the paramount concern.

    Students from the affected universities quickly took to social media, sharing their fears, frustrations, and messages of solidarity. Many highlighted the recurring targeting of HBCUs and emphasized the critical importance of protecting these vital Black spaces. This latest scare reignites a long-standing conversation about the security challenges faced by HBCUs.

    Ongoing Threats and Calls for Action

    For years, HBCUs have been subjected to numerous bomb threats, hoaxes, and direct attacks, leaving the community shaken but resilient. The repeated nature of these incidents leads many to question why their institutions are consistently targeted. Critics argue that HBCUs often lack the same level of governmental protection afforded to predominantly white institutions.

    There’s a growing sentiment that each threat should be treated as an act of terrorism, given the fear, disruption to learning, and the specific targeting of Black institutions. As investigations continue, these events are fueling renewed demands for stronger security measures at both federal and local levels to ensure the safety and well-being of HBCU students and staff.

    What steps do you believe should be taken to better protect HBCUs from these threats? Share your thoughts in the comments below.

  • HBCUs on High Alert After Campus Threats

    A day of fear and uncertainty unfolded on Thursday, September 11, 2025, for students and staff at three Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Alabama State University, Hampton University, and Virginia State University all confirmed receiving threats, leading to emergency measures including class cancellations, campus closures, and lockdowns.

    Emergency Measures Across Campuses

    Administrators at these institutions acted swiftly to ensure the safety of their communities. Campuses were either closed for the remainder of the day or classes and activities were suspended for multiple days. Students were urged to shelter in place or avoid campus unless absolutely necessary, while law enforcement conducted sweeps of buildings.

    These events cast a shadow over higher education institutions, especially coming just one day after a highly publicized assassination attempt on conservative activist Charlie Kirk at a Utah college campus. This incident has intensified national discussions surrounding safety, political violence, and security protocols in educational settings.

    Alabama State University (ASU)

    Alabama State University issued an official statement confirming its campus closure for the rest of the day. On-campus residents were instructed to shelter in place, while off-campus students were asked to leave after their buildings were cleared by law enforcement. All campus events and operations were suspended as police investigated.

    Hampton University

    Hampton University canceled all classes and activities, including athletic events, for both Thursday and Friday after confirming a “potential threat.” The university advised students and staff to stay away from campus unless it was essential and implemented enhanced security measures across the grounds.

    Virginia State University (VSU)

    Virginia State University confirmed it was on lockdown as law enforcement investigated a threat received earlier in the day. Fortunately, no injuries were reported. The school canceled all afternoon classes and extracurricular activities, advising students to remain indoors except for essential movement. Extra security was deployed on and off campus.

    Prioritizing Community Safety

    All three universities emphasized that the safety and well-being of their students, staff, and faculty are their utmost priorities. They urged everyone to remain alert and report any suspicious activity to authorities. These threats follow a concerning pattern that has unfortunately targeted HBCUs in recent years, prompting ongoing vigilance and collaboration with federal and local agencies.

    What steps do you believe educational institutions should take to enhance campus safety in the face of such threats? Share your thoughts and suggestions in the comments below.

  • HBCUs on High Alert After ‘Terroristic’ Threats

    A wave of concern swept across several Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) this week as four institutions reported receiving ‘terroristic’ threats. This alarming news prompted immediate lockdowns, campus-wide safety alerts, and a significant increase in security measures, disrupting normal campus operations.

    Campuses Under Threat: A Closer Look

    The universities affected include Alabama State University, Hampton University, Virginia State University, and Clark Atlanta University. On Thursday, September 11, 2025, each of these institutions enacted emergency protocols. Classes were canceled, campuses were locked down, and students and staff were instructed to shelter in place or work remotely.

    These incidents are particularly unsettling as they follow closely on the heels of other concerning events, including a shooting at Charlie Kirk’s event on a Utah University campus and a tragic high school shooting in Colorado. The timing has amplified anxieties within the educational community.

    Virginia State University (VSU)

    Virginia State University in Petersburg, Virginia, was among the first to go on lockdown Thursday morning after receiving a threat. All classes were suspended, and employees were directed to work remotely. Students were advised to remain indoors and stay updated via VSU emails, with off-campus students urged not to return until further notice.

    Hampton University

    Hampton University in Hampton, Virginia, also canceled all non-essential activities, including classes and campus events, for Thursday and Friday. Meetings were moved to remote formats, and non-essential personnel were asked to leave campus. University officials stated that enhanced security measures were in effect and that they were collaborating with local law enforcement.

    Alabama State University (ASU)

    In Montgomery, Alabama, Alabama State University entered a lockdown after receiving what they described as “terroristic threats.” Classes and activities were suspended, and the university community was instructed to stay indoors or avoid campus. A spokesperson emphasized that the safety of students, faculty, and staff is the highest priority, and increased security is in place as law enforcement investigates.

    Clark Atlanta University (CAU)

    Clark Atlanta University in Atlanta, Georgia, issued a shelter-in-place order for students and faculty just before noon on Thursday. While the university police have not released specific details about the cause of the order, the Atlanta Police Department is reportedly assisting with the investigation.

    Ongoing Investigations and Commitment to Safety

    Each institution is maintaining constant communication with its students and staff, underscoring their commitment to transparency and safety during this challenging time. Law enforcement agencies are actively investigating the threats, working to ensure the security of these vital educational centers.

    What are your thoughts on these threats targeting HBCUs? How can campuses better prepare for and respond to such incidents? Share your views in the comments below.

  • NC A&T Makes History: First HBCU Over 15,000 Students

    History has been made in the world of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)! North Carolina A&T State University (NCAT) has officially become the first HBCU in the nation to achieve an enrollment exceeding 15,000 students. This incredible milestone for Fall 2025, with a reported 15,275 students, not only solidifies A&T’s position as the largest HBCU but also highlights its expanding national and international appeal.

    A Record-Breaking Freshman Class Joins the Aggie Family

    The incoming freshman class is a testament to A&T’s growing reputation. With 3,021 new students joining the Aggie family, the university is attracting top talent. These new students boast an impressive average GPA of 3.7, with out-of-state freshmen achieving an even higher average of 3.93 GPA. This indicates that NCAT is increasingly becoming a destination for high-achieving students from across the country.

    But the growth isn’t limited to freshmen. NCAT has also seen a significant 17% increase in transfer students, welcoming 814 new individuals. This surge reflects the university’s successful efforts to create smoother pathways for students transferring from community colleges, making higher education more accessible.

    Graduate Education and Research Expansion

    The university is also experiencing remarkable growth in its graduate programs. For the first time, NCAT has surpassed 2,000 graduate students, including a notable 702 doctoral candidates—a 23.4% increase from the previous year. This expansion underscores NCAT’s commitment to its mission as a doctoral research university and its growing influence in crucial fields like innovation, science, and technology.

    Focus on Student Success and Retention

    Beyond sheer numbers, NCAT is prioritizing student success and retention. This year, the university achieved a significant milestone: over 80% of first-year students returned for their sophomore year. This high retention rate points to the university’s dedication to fostering a supportive academic and community environment where students can truly thrive.

    The success extends beyond campus life. NCAT reports that its bachelor’s degree holders earn a median salary of $112,000 ten years after graduation, placing them among the top earners nationally from HBCUs. This financial success is a powerful indicator of the value of an NCAT education.

    A Growing Global Reach

    NCAT’s impact is truly far-reaching. Its student body now represents 97 out of North Carolina’s 100 counties, 43 U.S. states, and an impressive 103 foreign nations. International enrollment has seen a 10.3% increase, with nearly 500 students hailing from Africa. This diverse geographic representation highlights NCAT’s status as a premier destination for students seeking academic excellence combined with the rich cultural experience of an HBCU.

    Leadership Perspectives on the Achievement

    Chancellor James R. Martin II celebrated the achievement, calling it “a reaffirmation of our national appeal and impact as an exponential, doctoral research HBCU… the promise that North Carolina A&T holds for students around the world.” Associate Vice Provost for Enrollment Management Joseph Montgomery added that the university remains dedicated to a “holistic process that ensures we select students who will excel at A&T and become future leaders.”

    A Landmark Moment for All HBCUs

    North Carolina A&T’s historic enrollment growth is more than just a win for one institution; it’s a significant moment for the entire HBCU community. In an era where many universities face enrollment challenges, A&T’s success serves as powerful evidence of the enduring relevance, excellence, and transformative power of HBCUs in preparing the next generation of leaders.

    With its strong academic programs, expanding global reach, and unwavering commitment to student success, NCAT continues to shine as a flagship institution, demonstrating the immense value and potential within the HBCU landscape.

    What do you think makes North Carolina A&T such a compelling choice for students? Share your thoughts on this historic enrollment milestone in the comments below!

  • Virginia HBCUs Halt Operations Amid Campus Threats

    In response to concerning threats received this week, two prominent Virginia HBCUs, Virginia State University (VSU) and Hampton University, have temporarily suspended campus operations. This decisive action, taken on Thursday, September 11, 2025, underscores the critical importance of prioritizing the safety and well-being of students, faculty, and staff within the HBCU community.

    Virginia State University’s Swift Response

    Virginia State University acted immediately upon receiving the threats, announcing a complete campus closure. Law enforcement was engaged to investigate the situation thoroughly. VSU leadership urged everyone in the university community to stay informed through official communication channels, emphasizing that the safety of all VSU members was their paramount concern. By pausing operations and collaborating with law enforcement, VSU demonstrated its commitment to transparency and vigilance during a time of uncertainty.

    Hampton University’s Two-Day Suspension

    Hampton University also took decisive measures, suspending all non-essential operations for September 11th and 12th. This included the cancellation of classes, athletic activities, and on-campus events. Off-campus students were advised not to return to campus until further notice. Non-essential faculty and staff were asked to leave campus, while students residing on campus were strongly encouraged to remain in their residences unless absolutely necessary.

    The university increased its police presence and reminded the community to remain vigilant, promoting the ‘if you see something, say something’ approach. This proactive stance aimed to ensure the safety and security of everyone within the Hampton community.

    Prioritizing Safety Above All Else

    Both Virginia State University and Hampton University made it unequivocally clear that safety was the driving force behind their decisions. By choosing to prioritize security, even at the cost of disrupting normal campus activities, these institutions join a growing number of HBCUs nationwide that have had to confront similar safety challenges in recent years.

    These actions highlight a difficult reality: HBCUs often find themselves at the crossroads of national safety concerns, potentially limited security resources, and their significant cultural importance. The swift and decisive actions taken by these Virginia HBCUs demonstrate not only the seriousness with which they handle potential threats but also the evolving strategies for crisis preparedness within these institutions.

    The Wider Impact on HBCUs

    Threats like these have repercussions that extend beyond temporary operational suspensions. They can significantly impact student mental health, erode institutional trust, and affect the overall campus experience. HBCUs, often cherished as safe spaces for culture, education, and empowerment, are increasingly forced to balance their academic missions with heightened security measures.

    Despite these challenges, the resilience of these communities remains a powerful force. By reacting decisively and communicating transparently, Virginia State and Hampton are reinforcing a crucial message to their students and families: their safety is the top priority. This commitment to protecting their communities, even through disruption, sets a vital standard for crisis response.

    Looking Ahead

    As investigations into the threats continue, key questions remain about their credibility and the timeline for resuming full campus operations. Universities will likely focus on providing support services, such as counseling resources and safety forums, and may implement increased security measures. This situation also serves as a poignant reminder of the unique challenges HBCUs face and the critical need for robust crisis communication and community support systems.

    What are your thoughts on how universities handle campus threats? How can HBCUs strengthen their safety protocols while maintaining a welcoming environment? Share your perspectives in the comments below!

  • Sean K. Campbell Joins Howard U. Journalism Center

    Howard University is stepping up its game in investigative journalism education! The esteemed institution announced that nationally recognized investigative reporter Sean K. Campbell is joining its Center for Journalism & Democracy as a Visiting Professor for the 2025-2026 academic year. This marks the second year of this vital program, founded by the incredible Nikole Hannah-Jones, aimed at expanding investigative journalism training for HBCU students.

    Building on a Legacy of Journalistic Excellence

    Howard University’s Cathy Hughes School of Communications has a long-standing reputation for nurturing Black journalists who go on to shape the media landscape. With Campbell’s arrival, students will gain invaluable access to his expertise in data-driven investigative reporting—a skill set that’s more crucial than ever in today’s complex media environment.

    The Center for Journalism & Democracy is committed to producing reporting that is both historically informed and driven by accountability. Campbell’s teaching and mentorship are set to significantly bolster this mission, equipping Howard students with the skills needed to uncover truths, hold powerful institutions accountable, and foster positive change within their communities.

    Impactful Courses and Wider Reach

    This fall, Campbell will be teaching two key courses. First, ‘Data-Driven Stories,’ which will guide students on how to transform raw data into compelling narratives. Second, ‘Truth Be Told,’ co-taught with journalist Erika Blount, where students will hone their fact-checking skills and produce reporting specifically relevant to Black communities. The fruits of their labor will be published on TruthBeTold.news, Howard’s own student-powered news platform.

    Campbell’s influence won’t be confined to Howard’s campus. In the spring, he’ll extend his teaching to Morgan State University, offering data journalism courses. This expansion is a key part of the Center’s broader mission to strengthen investigative journalism education across HBCUs nationwide.

    A Career Dedicated to Uncovering Truths

    Sean K. Campbell brings a wealth of experience to his role. His career has been marked by investigations into critical issues such as racism within Doctors Without Borders, the often-hidden toll of deaths in nursing homes, and the illegal flow of firearms. He also contributed a lead feature to New York Magazine’s award-winning “Ten Years Since Trayvon” issue.

    For Howard students, learning from a professor with such a distinguished investigative background means gaining not just the technical skills to find facts, but also the ability to craft resonant narratives that can shape national conversations.

    Strengthening the HBCU Investigative Journalism Consortium

    Campbell’s professorship also plays a vital role in Howard’s larger vision: building a robust network of HBCUs committed to investigative journalism. The Center for Journalism & Democracy collaborates with several institutions, including:

    • Florida A&M University
    • Morehouse College
    • Morgan State University
    • North Carolina A&T State University
    • North Carolina Central University
    • Savannah State University
    • Texas Southern University
    • University of the District of Columbia

    This consortium ensures that valuable investigative journalism resources and mentorship are accessible to HBCU students well beyond the walls of Howard University.

    Investing in the Future of Journalism

    Sean K. Campbell’s appointment signifies more than just adding another faculty member; it represents a significant investment in the next generation of truth-tellers. Students at Howard and its partner HBCUs will learn to ask tougher questions, analyze deeper patterns, and produce stories that challenge power structures and shift narratives.

    As Howard University continues its leadership in cultivating groundbreaking Black journalists, the addition of Professor Campbell ensures the university remains at the cutting edge of journalism education, while simultaneously uplifting and empowering HBCU students across the nation.

    What are your thoughts on the importance of investigative journalism training at HBCUs? How can programs like this empower future journalists? Share your insights in the comments below!

  • HBCU Students: Apply for Paid Theater Apprenticeship!

    Are you an HBCU student or recent graduate with a passion for theater? Do you dream of working behind the scenes in the commercial theater industry? Then listen up! Broadway Across America (BAA) and the Black Theatre Coalition (BTC) have just opened applications for their fifth annual Regional Apprenticeship program, and it’s a fantastic paid opportunity designed specifically to bring more underrepresented voices into the spotlight—and backstage!

    A Gateway to the Commercial Theater World

    This isn’t just any internship; it’s a 14-week paid initiative running from January through April 2026. It offers invaluable, hands-on experience in the commercial theater business, with a special focus on Broadway touring. If you’re looking to kickstart your career in theater administration, marketing, operations, or ticketing, this program is tailor-made for you.

    The program structure is designed for maximum exposure. Apprentices will spend 13 weeks immersed in one of BAA’s regional offices across the country—think New York City, Atlanta, Houston, Seattle, and more! There, they’ll learn the ins and outs of presenting shows, ticketing strategies, marketing campaigns, and venue operations. The grand finale? A week in New York City for intensive on-the-job training, crucial networking opportunities, and, of course, experiencing Broadway shows firsthand.

    A Proven Track Record of Success

    Since its inception five years ago, the BAA-BTC Apprenticeship has been a powerful launchpad for aspiring theater professionals. The program boasts an impressive roster of alumni who have gone on to secure positions at major industry players like Tony Award Productions, Disney Theatrical Productions, and the John Gore Organization. Many past participants have come from esteemed HBCUs, including Howard University, Spelman College, and Coppin State University, proving that this initiative is actively fostering talent from diverse backgrounds.

    We are proud to see the continued impact of our partnership with BTC, as alumni of the program go on to build meaningful careers across the Broadway industry not just in New York, but across America. — Lauren Reid, President of the John Gore Organization

    The co-founders of BTC, T. Oliver Reid and Warren Adams, also highlighted the program’s significance, stating, “Five years in, our partnership with JGO continues to create real access points for early-career professionals. We’ve seen firsthand how this program can help them build connections, with a national reach, and take meaningful steps toward furthering their careers in the industry.”

    Building Equity Behind the Scenes

    The Black Theatre Coalition, founded in 2019, is dedicated to dismantling systemic barriers within the theater world. While progress has been made in onstage representation, BTC’s crucial mission is to increase diversity in administrative, producing, and executive roles—the vital positions that keep the industry running. Their partnership with Broadway Across America is instrumental in achieving this goal on a national level.

    This apprenticeship provides more than just training; it offers a robust support system. Through mentorship and professional development, participants gain access to a network of industry leaders, providing guidance that extends far beyond the 14 weeks of the program. This network has been a key factor in the continued success of its alumni.

    Who Should Apply?

    The program is actively seeking students pursuing degrees in a wide range of fields that intersect with commercial theater. This includes, but is not limited to:

    • Arts Administration
    • Business Administration
    • Marketing
    • Public Relations/Communications
    • Theatre Studies
    • Finance/Accounting
    • Human Resources
    • Pre-Law
    • Arts Ticketing/Sales/Operations

    Applicants from all backgrounds, perspectives, and abilities are strongly encouraged to apply. This is a chance to gain incredible experience and make meaningful connections in the theater industry.

    The deadline to apply is October 1, 2025, at 11:59 PM ET. Don’t miss out! You can find more information and submit your application at broadwayacrossamerica.com/apprenticeship.

    Are you ready to take the next step in your theater career? Apply for the BAA-BTC Apprenticeship today! What aspect of theater production interests you the most? Let us know in the comments!