LISD will host its annual HBCU College Fair March 3 from 6-8 p.m. at Marcus High School. The college fair features alumni and representatives from multiple HBCUs and gives interested students an opportunity to learn more about them. 

“At the college fair, there will be admissions representatives from multiple HBCUs who will discuss admissions requirements, what the colleges look for in students, scholarship information and other [relevant] details about the university,” counselor and HBCU college fair committee member Marlene Hood said. “There will also be a panel of former LISD students who attended or attend an HBCU and performances from the Hebron step team.” 

HBCUs, or Historically Black Colleges and Universities, are colleges established before the Civil Rights Act of 1964 with the intention of serving African Americans not permitted to attend white universities. More than 20 HBCUs will be present at the college fair such as Grambling State University, Texas Southern University and Prairie View A&M. 

The college fair began three years ago and Hood said its primary intent was to bring awareness to HBCUs. 

“I think because parents and students are not aware of HBCUs or the quality of education they offer, they’re a little leery of them,” Hood said. “When Hebron has college fairs, for example, not many HBCUs attend. I have been told, on the HBCU end, it’s because not many participants come to their tables because students are not familiar with them.”

Although the college fair is primarily intended for juniors and seniors, it’s available for students of all grade levels. Hood said she especially recommends underclassmen attend.

“It’s never too early for 9th and 10th graders to begin exploring what colleges are out there,” Hood said. “I think this is a great opportunity for [underclassmen] to figure out what they want to do and don’t want to do.”

Although the college fair previously took place during school hours, this year it will be after school. Hood said the HBCU College Fair Committee, which plans the college fair, hopes to make this change permanent. 

“The reason the committee made the decision to move the college fair to the evening is in anticipation of more attendance,” Hood said. “In the past, it was only students and staff, but this year parents will be allowed.”

Hood said one important distinction to make is that HBCUs are not just for Black students. She recommends all interested students attend the college fair to learn more about them.

“There are many non-Black students who attend HBCUs and receive a good education and exposure,” Hood said. “I have experienced non-Black people who attend HBCUs and say it was one of the best experiences they’ve had. Anyone interested should attend.”