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  • Team Workshop in St. Paul
    We believe in
    Black youth
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America's Work Crisis

We have a global work crisis that’s twofold. Professional jobs are increasing faster than we can fill them, and most of us — from college interns to senior executives — feel undervalued and overworked.

This deficit in skills and morale is driven by the adoption of new technology, socioeconomic inequality, and our outdated approach to education & training.

We address America's work crisis by bringing together our most resilient community (Black youth) and our most resourced community (industry leaders) to advance our nation's approach to education & training.

Who We Are

HBCU First is a student-led community advancing the overall wellbeing and economic participation of America's Black youth.

As the nation's leading HBCU internship and mentoring academy, we empower elite students — from 70+ Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) — with in-demand, college-to-career skills.

We believe Black colleges — due to their track record of graduating thriving professionals — should be the first choice of college-bound Black youth and organizations seeking diverse talent.

We are proud earners of the Guidestar® 2024 Platinum Seal of Transparency.

Our Values & Principles

The HBCU First guiding principles of Feedback, Accountably, Community, Transparency, and Service (FACTS) shape our work and who we work with.

Feedback: We believe the goals and values of everyone matters.

 

Accountability: We believe everything we do, and don't do, impacts others.

 

Community: We believe we're all in this together as Americans and youth.

 

Transparency: We believe honest & direct communication is key to progress.

 

Service: We believe leadership is about helping others move forward.

HBCU First is a student-led community advancing the overall wellbeing and economic participation of America’s Black youth.

Increase college and career success for Black youth.