Welcome to the Historically Black
Colleges and Universities
(HBCU) Initiative
The HBCU Initiative serves as a powerful conduit for raising awareness, fostering partnerships, and mobilizing support for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Our mission is to promote and assist in access to higher education by collaborating with these historic institutions, enriching the lives of students of color, and equipping them with tools for success in their academic, personal, and professional journeys.
Through strategic fundraising efforts, the Initiative provides monthly scholarships to students currently enrolled at HBCUs across the nation. All financial disbursements are managed by the HBCU Initiative Committee and carried out under the guidance of the Imperial Council to ensure transparency and accountability.
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​Mission Statement
Our mission is to actively support and advance the mission of Historically Black Colleges and Universities by raising funds and resources to enhance educational opportunities, empower students, and strengthen community partnerships.
Purpose
We are committed to engaging alumni, friends, and partners in philanthropy to ensure the sustainability and growth of HBCUs. Through strategic fundraising initiatives, community outreach, and donor cultivation, we aim to bridge financial gaps, promote access to quality education, and foster an environment that celebrates the rich history and cultural heritage of HBCUs. Together, we strive to empower the next generation of diverse leaders and make a lasting impact on the future of education.
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Our Impact in Texas
As part of the Desert of Texas, we are proud to champion this mission by supporting nine distinguished HBCUs within our state:
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• Huston-Tillotson University
• Jarvis Christian University
• Paul Quinn College
• Prairie View A&M University
• Southwestern Christian College
• St. Philip’s College
• Texas College
• Texas Southern University
• Wiley College
Our commitment includes:
• Scholarships
• Student care packages
• Mentorship opportunities
• Leadership development programs
• Career-readiness workshops
• College fairs
• Sustained campus engagement
All initiatives are designed to elevate the student experience and support long-term success. Together, we are nurturing the next generation of leaders and strengthening the legacy of HBCUs, one student at a time.
Get Involved. Make an Impact.
Interested in supporting our mission or partnering with us? We’d love to hear from you.
Contact:
Desert of Texas HBCU Representatives
PP Bennie R. Smith, Jr. (45) & Dt. Kawana N. Smith, M.A. (38)
Email: desertoftxhbcu@gmail.com
Whether you’re an individual, business, or community organization, your involvement can help shape a brighter future for students across Texas and beyond.
Join us, let’s build the future together.
Desert of Texas Launches “Conversations with HBCUs:
Texas Edition” Virtual Series to Celebrate Legacy and Inspire Future Leaders
The Desert of Texas HBCU Initiative Department proudly announces the launch of Conversations with HBCUs: Texas Edition, a groundbreaking virtual series designed to uplift, educate, and inspire communities across the state. Running from February through October 2026, this monthly series shines a light on the nine Historically Black Colleges and Universities that call Texas home, celebrating their enduring legacy while empowering the next generation of scholars and leaders.
Set to begin during Black History Month, the series will open with a powerful first episode highlighting Texas Southern University, honoring its long standing tradition of Black excellence and community impact.
A Series Built on Legacy, Culture, and Connection
Conversations with HBCUs: Texas Edition was created to provide authentic insight into the culture, traditions, and academic excellence that make HBCUs a vital part of the education landscape. Unlike traditional college fairs, this series offers meaningful dialogue directly from the people who know these campuses best, leaders, faculty, staff, students, and alumni.
Each monthly episode will explore a different Texas HBCU, offering viewers a comprehensive look at campus life, student support services, academic pathways, scholarships, mental health resources, career preparation, and alumni success stories. The goal is simple: to educate, uplift, and celebrate the foundational role HBCUs play in shaping communities.
Who Should Attend
This free virtual series is designed to support a broad audience, including:
• High school students exploring college options
• Parents and guardians seeking clarity and guidance
• School counselors and campus administrators
• Current college students considering transfer or graduate programs
• Alumni and community members wanting to stay connected
Every episode will include live conversations, Q&A opportunities, and access to information that helps families make informed decisions about higher education.
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What Participants Can Expect
• Live panel discussions with campus leaders, students, and alumni
• Honest conversations about the HBCU experience
• In-depth discussions on housing, campus life, traditions, and academic programs
• Resources related to mental health, scholarships, and career pathways
• Free admission, giveaways, and appearances from special guests
2026 Episode Lineup
February 7, 2026 — Texas Southern University (Houston)
Episode 1: “The Legacy Lives On: HBCUs and Black Excellence”
Status: Now Available / First Episode
Registration Deadline: January 31, 2026
Registration Link:
👉 Click Here to Register for the February Episode
March 2026 — St. Philip’s College (San Antonio)
Episode 2: “A Legacy of Access: The Only College Named for a Saint and a City”
Status: Coming Soon
April 2026 — Prairie View A&M University (Prairie View)
Episode 3: “Excellence in STEM and Agriculture at PVAMU”
Status: Coming Soon
May 2026 — Huston-Tillotson University (Austin)
Episode 4: “The HBCU Experience in the Heart of Texas”
Status: Coming Soon
June 2026 — Wiley College (Marshall)
Episode 5: “The Great Debaters: Power of Voice and Advocacy”
Status: Coming Soon
July 2026 — Jarvis Christian University (Hawkins)
Episode 6: “Faith, Purpose & Persistence in Higher Learning”
Status: Coming Soon
August 2026 — Texas College (Tyler)
Episode 7: “Educating Minds, Empowering Communities”
Status: Coming Soon
September 2026 — Southwestern Christian College (Terrell)
Episode 8: “Building Character, Leadership, and Service”
Status: Coming Soon
October 2026 — Paul Quinn College (Dallas)
Episode 9: “Leadership, Innovation & Service: The PQC Model”
Status: Coming Soon
The Desert of Texas invites the community to follow their Facebook and Instagram pages and visit their website for updates, registration links, and announcements. Conversations with HBCUs: Texas Edition serves as both a celebration and a call to action to honor the legacy, support the mission, and ensure the future of Texas HBCUs remains strong for generations to come.
