In the wake of a recent Supreme Court ruling that effectively dismantled affirmative action in college admissions, historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) are witnessing an unprecedented surge in enrollment.
This trend, however, predates the court’s decision, suggesting deeper currents at play.
To shed light on this phenomenon, we spoke with Dr. Valerie Kinloch, the president of Johnson C. Smith University (JCSU), who provided insights into the factors contributing to this growth.
Dr. Kinloch emphasized that while the Supreme Court’s ruling has indeed influenced enrollment figures, it is merely one piece of a larger puzzle.
“Many reasons contribute to our record enrollment,” she stated.
Founded in 1867, JCSU has long been dedicated to empowering black and brown students, preparing them for success in a competitive world.
Despite the challenges posed by the ruling, Dr. Kinloch remains optimistic about the university’s mission and its role in supporting students during these turbulent times.
As of now, JCSU boasts an enrollment of over 1,300 students, a significant increase from last year’s 1,100.
This uptick reflects a growing recognition among prospective students that HBCUs offer a supportive environment where they can thrive academically and socially.
Dr. Kinloch pointed out that many students, particularly those from marginalized communities, may feel discouraged from applying to predominantly white institutions due to fears of rejection.
When asked about the university’s capacity, Dr. Kinloch noted that while they are currently at full capacity, there is a pressing need to revitalize existing facilities.
A large residence hall, which could accommodate an additional 235 students, remains offline.
The goal is to renovate this space and expand the university’s housing options to meet the increasing demand for enrollment.
With the rise in applications, many HBCUs, including JCSU, are grappling with how to accommodate more students.
Dr. Kinloch highlighted the importance of not only physical space but also the need to adapt to the evolving landscape of higher education.
The pandemic forced many institutions to pivot to online learning, and while JCSU has made strides in this area, there is still work to be done to create a robust online educational experience.
The conversation turned to future growth plans, particularly regarding the renovation of the residence hall.
Dr. Kinloch set her sights on a target completion date of fall 2025, although she acknowledged that securing funding for such projects is often a challenge.
The estimated cost to bring the dorm back online is around $12 million, a significant investment that underscores the necessity of adequate housing for students.
Tuition at JCSU is approximately $20,000 per year, which includes room and board.
Dr. Kinloch explained that despite the costs, the university offers various discounts to make education more accessible.
She noted that the programs attracting students to JCSU include business administration, STEM fields, and social work, all of which align with the demands of the job market.
The university’s location in Charlotte, a burgeoning hub for corporate America, further enhances its appeal.
Students are drawn to the prospect of studying in a city known for its vibrant economy, particularly in sectors like marketing, finance, and healthcare.
However, Dr. Kinloch also emphasized the importance of liberal arts programs, which nurture future leaders in politics and the arts.
Engagement with the community is another priority for Dr. Kinloch.
She expressed a desire to collaborate with organizations focused on civic engagement, highlighting the connection between student involvement and academic success.
Her commitment to fostering an active student body reflects a broader understanding of the role HBCUs play in shaping the next generation of leaders.
As the conversation wrapped up, Dr. Kinloch reiterated the importance of creative financing solutions to support the university’s growth.
By exploring partnerships with developers and local organizations, JCSU aims to diversify its revenue streams and enhance its facilities.
The vision for a new convocation center exemplifies this forward-thinking approach, aiming to create a multifunctional space that benefits both students and the surrounding community.
In light of the ongoing challenges facing HBCUs, Dr. Kinloch’s leadership embodies a proactive stance towards growth and adaptation.
As enrollment continues to rise, the focus remains on providing quality education and resources for all students, ensuring that they have the tools needed to succeed in an ever-changing world.
