Historically Black Colleges and Universities: Strengthening communities, enriching lives

Today’s HBCUs are transforming for the future, while upholding traditions and producing Black excellence

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) represent the past, present, and future of Black experiences in North America, and have played a vital role in the lives and advancement of African Americans.

Not long ago, these were the only institutions where Black people and other people of color could safely—or even legally—receive an advanced education in the United States. Today, many HBCUs are transforming to best serve the next generation, while still upholding the traditions that have fostered strong communities and produce Black excellence in nearly every field.

Black History Month provides a moment to reflect on the innumerable past contributions that African Americans and Black Canadians have made to society, many of which are being uncovered in the present.

“HBCUs have played a significant role in enriching the lives of all of their students. They have a long history of contributing to society, with the oldest ones being founded in the 1800s,” says Melissa Harper, Enbridge’s Chief Human Resources and Inclusion Officer. “HBCUs produce a large percentage of Black engineers, doctors, lawyers, members of congress, and other professions—including my daughter, who completed her undergraduate degree from Prairie View A&M in Texas.”

Enbridge recognizes the importance of HBCUs in our communities and is proud to partner with several institutions across North America.

Our talent acquisition team is building relationships with schools like Jackson State University, Prairie View A&M University, and Texas Southern University to recruit top talent—and as part of our Inclusion, Diversity, Equity and Accessibility Strategy (IDEAS), we have invested nearly $400,000 in HBCUs over the past year.

“I am excited to be partnering with the HBCUs that Enbridge has selected. Being a product of an HBCU (Southern University) makes me proud, knowing that these institutions offer thorough education and rich history, and help promote a culture of diversity,” says Marlon Joseph, a talent acquisition advisor with Enbridge.

“HBCUs have long been the foundation for Black education, and I am glad that Enbridge is investing in these universities so that we can help these students achieve the same opportunities others are afforded.”