A college fair focused on historically Black colleges and universities is planned next weekend at Guilford Park High School in Jessup.
Hosted by the Howard County Public School System the March 15 event aims to celebrate and promote “the rich heritage and educational excellence” offered at HBCUs while connecting students and families to school representatives, local businesses and sororities or fraternities. Students in eighth through 12th grades may attend the event, which will be held from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.
“The fair will be an invaluable resource for students seeking a college experience that nurtures cultural identity, academic excellence and leadership development,” Superintendent Bill Barnes said during a Feb. 27 Board of Education meeting.
Representatives from about 23 schools have been confirmed to attend, including all four of Maryland’s HBCUs — Bowie State University, Coppin State University, Morgan State University, and the University of Maryland Eastern Shore. There will also be several “breakout sessions” on topics such as the college application process, resume building and scholarships and financial aid to the HBCU network, athletics and STEM programs.
“I want to make it clear to the community that Historically Black Colleges and Universities… they serve everyone. They do not exclude anyone, but they’re designed to provide a unique experience for students, African American students, something that they don’t necessarily get in the predominantly white universities, right, the PWIs,” Jacky McCoy, an at-large board member, said during the Feb. 27 meeting.
Barnes thanked Guilford Park High Assistant Principal Kareem Penn for his leadership in fostering a partnership with HBCUs, noting a program in which HBCU students visit the high school to talk with students.
The U.S. Coast Guard, the county Office of Workforce Development and various other businesses will be at the fair as well.
Registration for the HBCU College Fair can be found online. For more information go to https://sites.google.com/hcpss.org/hcpsshbcufair/home.
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