HBCUs Gain Funding in Grant Program
Eight historically Black colleges and universities are planning major new initiatives to train future workers thanks to U.S. Labor Department grants.
Awards announced this fall will help colleges work with businesses to close skill gaps and create jobs. Along with the eight HBCUs, the program also will reach six tribal and Hispanic-serving colleges.
"Colleges and universities that primarily serve minorities are in a unique position to provide leadership in closing this skills gap for the African American, Hispanic and Native American communities," says Labor Secretary Alexis Herman.
HBCUs selected for the program, with funding amounts, are: Albany State University, $248,150; Bethune-Cookman College, $1.6 million; Bowie State University, $1.6 million; Denmark Technical College, $390,000; Howard University, $750,000; Johnson C. Smith University, $748,330; Norfolk State University, $1.6 million; and Tuskegee University, $1.8 million.
Albany State's program is typical of those receiving funds. The college plans to perform a community audit of jobs and skills in and around its southwest Georgia community. Under the second phase of the program, the university will train Microsoft-certified software engineers as well as quality technicians and quality engineers.
Bowie State plans to use its grant to train 300 individuals in information technology, telecommunications and other fields with local skill shortages. In addition to job skills, trainees will receive child-care assistance during training and internships.
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