Empowering Dreams: Staten Island HBCU Fair 2024

Greetings, HBCU Fam! The recent Staten Island HBCU Fair 2024 was a monumental success, bringing together over 1,000 high school students and their families to celebrate education, diversity, and the pursuit of dreams.

Imagine a world where higher education is within reach for all, where students of color are encouraged to aim for the stars. That's exactly what Tammy Renae Greer, the brains behind the Staten Island HBCU Experience, had in mind when she put together this incredible event.

So, what's the secret behind this fair's triumph? It's all about inclusivity! This annual gathering, held on the last Saturday of January, opens its doors to every high school student. While it primarily caters to high school seniors with a minimum GPA of 2.0, it offers something extraordinary – on-the-spot admissions to approximately 25 prestigious HBCUs.

From Curtis High School in St. George, this event drew not only locals but also students and families from nearby states like New Jersey, Pennsylvania, and Connecticut. It's a testament to the growing recognition of the value of HBCUs and the desire for an environment that genuinely values and empowers students.

Workshops on financial aid, NCAA eligibility, and the perks of choosing an HBCU were also on the menu. However, what truly sets HBCUs apart, as Tammy Greer so eloquently puts it, is the spirit of collaboration, the diverse student body, and professors who mirror your journey.

Let's celebrate the success of this fair and the incredible individuals who made it all possible. Kiara Brown (Howard University) and Isiah Williams (Virginia State University), both Curtis Alumni, served as hosts. Distinguished speakers included Curtis High School Principal Gregory Jaenicke, Staten Island District 31 Superintendent Dr. Marion Wilson, and Edwina Francis Martin, public administrator of Richmond County.

Crucial partnerships with organizations like Staten Island NAACP Youth Council, Moms of Black Boys United, New York Center for Interpersonal Development, and The HBCU Parent Association, NYC, played a pivotal role in bringing this event to life.

Let's continue to rally behind and celebrate these initiatives that swing open the doors to education, opportunity, and the illustrious legacy of HBCUs. Keep tabs on the Staten Island HBCU Experience on Instagram @sihbcufair and on Facebook at SIHBCU Experience for the latest updates.