HBCU Exploratory Framework

HBCU Exploratory Framework™

Research shows persistent socioeconomic inequality is putting America's future at risk. Our nation's outdated approach to preparing students for success is both an outcome, and driver of this national crisis.

We believe America's youth are entitled to a more holistic approach to college & career readiness. So in 2019, HBCU First developed the HBCU Exploratory Framework™.

What is the HBCU Exploratory Framework™?
The HBCU Exploratory Framework™ is a college success + career access model for students attending Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The framework leverages the lived experience of HBCU alums to help Black youth navigate the college & career journey and bridge the gap between learning and doing.

The key dimensions of the HBCU Exploratory Framework™ are the HBCU Near-Peer Mentoring Program, HBCU Career Talks™, and the HBCU Leadership Incubator™.

Part of The Problem Explained

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Near-Peer Mentoring
The HBCU Near-Peer Mentoring Program helps Black students transition to college and develop a plan for success.

Through a 10-week, social-emotional resilience based curriculum, each freshman & upperclassman pair develops a playbook for college success + career access.

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Career Talks
HBCU Career Talks™ provides career insights from industry leaders who understand the challenges of being young, Black, and ambitious.

Through virtual, HBCU student led forums, we unpack what it takes to go from college student to high-achieving professional.

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Leadership Development
The HBCU Leadership Incubator™ helps Black students attending America's 101 HBCUs bridge the gap between learning and doing.

Through meaningful, research-based projects and weekly growth sessions, student interns gain entrepreneurial skills and professional leadership experience.

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HBCU Exploratory Framework™

Part of The Problem Explained

Help increase college success + career access for Black youth.