'Highest Level of Excellence': BNC Takes Journey to Howard University

By Alyssa Wilson Published: November 30, 2021

‘Highest Level of Excellence’: BNC Takes Journey to Howard University

FILE - In this Saturday, May 7, 2016 file photo, students cheer as President Barack Obama delivers the commencement speech during the 2016 Howard University graduation ceremony in Washington. According the federal government a historically black college or university is an accredited learning institution started before 1964 that had a primary mission of educating black people. There are about 100 of them in 2018. (AP Photo/Jose Luis Magana, File)

In Summary

As part of BNC's commitment to HBCUs, the network is taking viewers to Howard University as part of its Road Trip: The HBCU Experience series.

The nation’s historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) are essential to creating community and opportunities for Black students. The talent produced from these institutions has and continues to impact the world in numerous sectors, from entertainment and law to science and health.

BNC is taking viewers on a road trip to look at the big picture to see how Historically Black Colleges and Universities are thriving now—more than ever. Exploring why they are essential to the Black community and should be celebrated.

We’re excited to tell you about a new BNC show airing this weekend. The series is called Road Trip. Over the next year, we’re heading on an adventure highlighting Black culture and excellence. We’re bringing you with us to experience music, food, innovation, and education.

Our first stop is Washington, D.C. and Howard University. Founded on March 2, 1867, the HBCU is home to numerous influential alumni, including Vice President Kamala Harris, Chadwick Boseman, Sean Combs, Taraji P. Henson, Thurgood Marshall, Toni Morrison and Phylicia Rashaad.

Lopez Matthews, a digital librarian at the university, said the school was able to stay open despite the racist culture that existed during the time of its inception. “Despite the racism and segregation and hostility toward Black education, Howard managed to succeed and thrive because they were able to fight,” he said. “The students were active. They refused to accept mistreatment by the national community which sought to look down on Black intellectuals.”

That resiliency has made the school one of the top-ranked HBCUs in the nation. University President Dr. Wayne A.I. Frederick said the institution represents the “highest level of excellence” as it sits on one of the highest points of Washington D.C.

Watch Road Trip: The HBCU Experience on BNC on Saturday for more on Howard University and its impact.

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