A Successful Inaugural HBCU Fair with NAZ
Recently, NAZ families and scholars came together for the first North Minneapolis Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) College Fair. This event gave our community a chance to learn about HBCUs and why they matter for our Northside scholars. We had representatives from the following institutions:
- Spelman
- Prairie View A&M University
- Fisk University
- Florida A&M University (FAMU)
- Hampton University
- Tennessee State University
- Howard University
- Tuskegee University
- North Carolina A&T State University
- Benedict College
- Jackson State University
- Dillard University
- Clark Atlanta University
- UNCF
- Wallin Education Partners
- Morehouse College
HBCUs have a long history of helping Black students succeed. They offer strong academic programs, caring professors, and a sense of pride, culture, and belonging. Many students say that going to an HBCU helps them feel seen, supported, and confident. We want our scholars to know that college is possible for them—and that HBCUs are real, achievable options for their future.
At the fair, families learned about the many opportunities HBCUs provide. Admissions staff and alumni from the schools listed were there to share information, answer questions, and talk with parents and scholars about what comes next. Families had the chance to learn about applications, scholarships, financial aid, and what life on campus can look like.
There was also a Divine Nine stroll, led by members below. This gave scholars a fun and exciting look at Black Greek life and the strong community that exists on many HBCU campuses.
Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc.
Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.
Kappa Alpha Psi Fraternity, Inc.
Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc.
Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc.
Phi Beta Sigma Fraternity, Inc.
Zeta Phi Beta Sorority, Inc.
Sigma Gamma Rho Sorority, Inc.
Iota Phi Theta Fraternity, Inc.
The event also featured a panel of speakers who discussed their experiences on campus, the importance of being part of the HBCU community, and how it shaped their futures. Their stories helped our scholars see that college is not only within reach—it can be a place where they grow, thrive, and build a future filled with promise. After the panel, the crowd enjoyed a high-energy drumline performance.
Thank you to panelists: Maya Sullivan (Tennessee State University), Jabari Knox (FAMU), Brian McCoy (Jackson State University), Corey Bullard (North Carolina A&T State University), Dwane Martin (Prairie View A&M University), and Jamila Toussaint, Esq. (Howard University).
NAZ will continue to support families as we work to close the belief gap and help every scholar see themselves as a future college student—because they can, and we believe in them.
