Contact:
Bob Spieldenner
bobspieldenner@schev.edu
(804) 718-9443 (cell)

RICHMOND - The State Council of Higher Education for Virginia is celebrating Black History Month by highlighting the success of the Commonwealth’s African American students and our Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

More than 90,000 Black or African American students are enrolled in an institution of higher learning in Virginia, which is 17% of all students. More than 18,500 Black or African American students received degrees in 2023-24, an all-time high.

“Virginia is leading the twenty-first century economy and these students are the future workers, business owners and leaders of the Commonwealth. Our collective success hinges on ensuring opportunity for all students,” said Scott Fleming, SCHEV director. “Contributing to our success are Virginia’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities. They are a major reason for Virginia’s reputation as the best state for education and a significant part of building our knowledge economy.”

Approximately 18,400 students attend the five HBCUs in Virginia, which include:

• Hampton University
• Norfolk State University
• Virginia State University
• Virginia Union University
• Virginia University of Lynchburg

“Norfolk State University has always been a beacon of access and opportunity,” said NSU President Javaune Adams-Gaston, Ph.D. “We take immense pride in our alumni and the pivotal role that we have played in their successes that contribute to generational legacy.”

“HBCUs are integral to Black History Month, as they have profoundly shaped the Black community by blending academic excellence with a commitment to developing globally competitive leaders. Virginia State University has been a driving force in social and economic progress throughout the Commonwealth. At VSU, we remain dedicated to providing transformative opportunities that honor and uphold the legacy of excellence on which Black history stands,” said Makola M. Abdullah, Ph.D., president of Virginia State University.

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