October 13th, 2024

By: Chelsea Davis-Bibb, Ed.D.

Once a student graduates from high school, many of them will make one of the biggest decisions of their life and attend college. Going to college is a big investment, and once a student graduates, they will need a job to pay off student loans if they have them and to survive in life. When graduation arrives and students enter the workforce, how much money will they receive? That amount may depend on the career field of their choice, or they could receive a better financial payoff based on the college they attended.

Taylor Nichols, a Data Reporter for OnlineU, conducted a research study to see which Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) offer the best salary potential for African American students in their state. According to OnlineU’s website, their mission since 2004 has been helping “aspiring students accomplish their education and career goals by finding the online degree with the best value.” Nichols stated, “We use data to empower students when they’re making decisions about their colleges and higher education.”

Nicole Hopler, Media Relations Manager for OnlineU mentioned, “We are focused on sharing a lot of outcomes after graduation and getting more information out there about higher education and what students can expect after graduation in terms of earnings and outcomes.”

There are many great benefits as to why a student should attend an HBCU, and Nichols was thrilled to do the study, and wanted to provide students with information so they can make an informed decision. “I was excited to do this study because there’s a lot of benefits to attending an HBCU, especially for Black students. It was an exciting opportunity to provide this type of data and this type of analysis for students who are thinking about where they want to go and might not be thinking about salary.”

In the research study, Xavier University of Louisiana came in with the “top HBCU for salary,” with a median salary of $52,582 when the state salary threshold is $36,962. That is a financial payoff of $15,619. Nichols was not surprised by this but was interested in digging more into the campus. “I found all this other information about how they are particularly well-known for boosting low-income students into higher income brackets. They rank well for economic mobility.” Following Xavier University of Louisiana was Spelman College, Hampton University, Morehouse College, and Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University just to name a few.

Regarding Texas, Prairie View A&M University (PV) ranked number one for the highest median salary of $37, 694.06, with the state salary threshold being $44,319. Unfortunately, that is a -6,624.94 difference. Behind PV was Texas Southern University, Hutson-Tillotson University, Paul Quinn College, Wiley College, Jarvis Christian College, and Texas College. A possible reason for PV being ranked so high “is related to their stem percentage. I think 30% of their students are stem majors, which was a theme we saw with other schools in our study, Nichols expressed.” Additionally, Prairie View A&M “ranks 13th for median income among all four-year HBCUs and is one of the largest HBCUs by enrollment in the country.”

One interesting aspect from the research study is that 81% of students who graduated from a school in Texas, remained in Texas. It was mentioned by Hopler that this could be because a lot of students who attend Texas schools are originally from the state, so they stay in Texas after graduation. Nichols discussed how she also wouldn’t also be surprised “if strong and local industry played a role in students wanting to stay in Texas after graduation.”

Whatever school students decide to attend, they must make the best decision for them. However, it is good to be well informed and have a full understanding of different outcomes, and benefits to attending their school of choice. It is research studies like the one Nichols conducted that not only informs them but may expose them to other options they may not have considered.

For Ineceia Carter, who currently attends an HBCU had her own personal reasons for why she wanted to attend. Carter stated, “I attended an HBCU because I wanted to surround myself with individuals willing and eager to invest in my undergraduate career, where I’m not fighting to let my voice be heard or feel uncomfortable in my environment.” She also mentioned how HBCU’s allow students to be “vulnerable” and express their culture.

Carter is a graduating senior from Prairie View A&M University, who will walk across the stage in a couple of weeks, and she couldn’t be happier. “I’ve grown throughout my life, and I wouldn’t have done so without my beloved HBCU guiding me along the way.” Carter is majoring in biology with two minors, one in chemistry and the other in human development and the family.

This was a very exciting research study for Hopler and Nichols and how they had the opportunity to highlight HBCUs. Nichols concluded stating, “I was really happy that we got to highlight strong HBCU’s especially because of all the benefits they give to their students and the unique aspects about them and the communities they serve.”

For more information regarding the research study, you can visit https://www.onlineu.com/magazine/hbcus-highest-payoff.

 

 

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October 16, 2023, HOUSTON, TX – Congressional Candidate Amanda Edwards has raised over $1 million in less than 4 months, a substantial sum that helps bolster the frontrunner status of the former At-Large Houston City Council Member in her bid for U.S. Congress. Edwards raised over $433,000 in Q3 of 2023. This strong Q3 report expands on a successful Q2 where Edwards announced just 11 days after declaring her candidacy that she had raised over $600,000. With over $829,000 in cash-on-hand at the end of the September 30th financial reporting period, Edwards proves again that she is the clear frontrunner in the race. “I am beyond grateful for the strong outpouring of support that will help me to win this race and serve the incredible people of the 18th Congressional District,” said Edwards. “We are at a critical juncture in our nation’s trajectory, and we need to send servant leaders to Congress who can deliver the results the community deserves. The strong support from our supporters will help us to cultivate an 18th Congressional District where everyone in it can thrive.” Edwards said. “Amanda understands the challenges that the hard-working folks of the 18th Congressional District face because she has never lost sight of who she is or where she comes from; she was born and raised right here in the 18th Congressional District of Houston,” said Kathryn McNiel, spokesperson for Edwards’ campaign. Edwards has been endorsed by Higher Heights PAC, Collective PAC, Krimson PAC, and the Brady PAC. She has also been supported by Beto O’Rourke, among many others. About Amanda: Amanda is a native Houstonian, attorney and former At-Large Houston City Council Member. Amanda is a graduate of Eisenhower High School in Aldine ISD. Edwards earned a B.A. from Emory University and a J.D. from Harvard Law School. Edwards practiced law at Vinson & Elkins LLP and Bracewell LLP before entering public service. Edwards is a life-long member of St. Monica Catholic Church in Acres Homes. For more information, please visit www.edwardsforhouston.com

As September 13th rolls around, we extend our warmest birthday wishes to the creative powerhouse, Tyler Perry, a man whose indomitable spirit and groundbreaking work have left an indelible mark on the world of entertainment. With his multifaceted talents as an actor, playwright, screenwriter, producer, and director, Tyler Perry has not only entertained but also inspired audiences worldwide, particularly within the African-American community, where his influence and role have been nothing short of powerful. Born in New Orleans, Louisiana, in 1969, Tyler Perry’s journey to stardom was a path riddled with adversity. Raised in a turbulent household, he found refuge in writing, using it as a therapeutic outlet. This period of introspection gave rise to one of his most iconic creations, Madea, a vivacious, no-nonsense grandmother who would later become a beloved figure in Perry’s works, offering a unique blend of humor and profound life lessons. Despite facing numerous challenges, including rejection and financial struggles, Perry’s determination and unwavering belief in his abilities propelled him forward. In 1992, he staged his first play, “I Know I’ve Been Changed,” which, although met with limited success, was a pivotal moment in his career. Unfazed by initial setbacks, Perry continued to hone his craft, and by 1998, he had successfully produced a string of stage plays that showcased his storytelling prowess.

Calling all teenage student-athletes! If you have dreams of playing college soccer and wish to represent an HBCU, the HBCU ID Camp is your golden opportunity. From 8 am to 5 pm on November 11-12, Houston Sports Park will transform into a hub for aspiring male and female soccer players. Coaches from HBCUs across the nation will be present to evaluate, scout, and offer valuable feedback. Moreover, they might even spot the next soccer prodigy to join their collegiate soccer programs. This camp is not just about honing your soccer skills but also a chance to connect with the HBCU soccer community. You’ll learn the ins and outs of what it takes to excel on the field and in the classroom, which is crucial for a college athlete. The HBCU ID Camp is an excellent platform to network with coaches, learn from experienced athletes, and take the first steps toward your college soccer journey. To secure your spot at this incredible event, don’t forget to register [here](insert registration link). Space is limited to 120 participants, so make sure to reserve your place before it’s too late. It’s time to turn your dreams of playing college soccer into a reality.

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