Last Updated on January 25, 2024
Trailblazers and Visionaries: How HBCU Graduates Shape Our World
Many of the people who have gone through the doors of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have changed their lives forever. These schools not only give students a good education, but they also help them reach their full potential, which can lead them to make important accomplishments in many areas.
You can walk in the steps of some of the most important leaders, creative minds, and sports superstars the world has ever seen as you look around HBCUs. A lot of important lawyers, artists, scientists, public servants, and sports stars are famous HBCU graduates and left their mark on the world.
HBCU graduates have a big effect on many areas of life. Their legacies can be heard in the halls of justice, the arenas of public policy, the vibrant colors of the arts, the cutting-edge fields of science and entertainment, and the competitive world of sports.
Their stories show how these universities help young people become leaders and talented. Keep reading to learn about the amazing stories of famous HBCU graduates to start their paths to success, inspiring others to do the same.
Trailblazers in Law and Public Service
You've probably heard of them and seen what they've done. There are a lot of examples of famous HBCU graduates breaking down boundaries and setting rules that are still being used today.
Famous HBCU Graduates in Law, Politics & Public Service
As the first female Vice President of the United States, Kamala Harris made history. She is happy to have graduated from Howard University, which shows how useful an HBCU education can be in politics. Howard not only gave us Vice President Harris, but it has also been a breeding ground for some of the best lawyers in the country. Then there are famous HBCU graduates who have graduated from The University of the District of Columbia, like Norma Holloway Johnson, a very important federal judge.
| Law & Politics | HBCU Attended |
|---|---|
| Kamala Harris - Vice President of the United States | Howard University |
| Norma Holloway Johnson - Federal Judge | University of the District of Columbia |
| Thurgood Marshall - Supreme Court Justice | Howard University |
| Raphael Warnock - U.S. Senator | Morehouse College |
| Keisha Lance Bottoms - Mayor of Atlanta | Florida A&M University |
| Stacey Abrams - Political Leader and Activist | Spelman College |
| Andrew Young - Former U.N. Ambassador | Howard University |
| Kurt Schmoke - First Elected Black Mayor of Baltimore | Howard University |
| Leah Ward Sears - First African American Female Chief Justice | Spelman College |
| Willie Gary - Prominent Trial Attorney | Shaw University |
| Jesse Jackson Sr. - Civil Rights Activist | North Carolina A&T State University |
| David Dinkins - Former Mayor of New York City | Howard University |
| Amos T. Hall - Prominent Civil Rights Attorney | Langston University |
| Charlotte E. Ray - First Black Female Lawyer in the U.S. | Howard University |
| Al Green - U.S. Representative | Texas Southern University |
| Keith Ellison - Attorney General of Minnesota | University of Minnesota (Undergrad), Howard University Law School (Graduate) |
| Barbara Charline Jordan - First African American elected to the Texas Senate after Reconstruction | Texas Southern University |
| Augusta Clark - Philadelphia City Council | West Virginia State University |
Moving from courtrooms to civil rights, HBCU graduates have consistently stood at the forefront.
Civil Rights Leaders and Their Alma Maters
Morehouse College is where Dr. Martin Luther King Jr., an important figure in the civil rights movement, went to school. His participation there shows how important HBCUs have been in producing leaders who have changed the way social justice and equality are done.
In the past, Thurgood Marshall, who was the first African American to serve on the Supreme Court, did his schooling at Lincoln University and Howard University. His court victories continue to serve as an example for lawyers and law students today.
| Civil Rights Leaders | HBCU Attended |
|---|---|
| Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. - Civil Rights Pioneer | Morehouse College |
| Thurgood Marshall - Supreme Court Justice | Lincoln University, PA (BA), Howard University (LLB) |
| Rosa Parks - Civil Rights Activist | Alabama State Teachers College for Negroes (Alabama State University) |
| Jesse Jackson Sr. - Civil Rights Leader | North Carolina A&T State University |
| John Lewis - Civil Rights Leader and Politician | American Baptist College, Fisk University |
| Ella Baker - Civil Rights and Human Rights Activist | Shaw University |
| Ralph Abernathy - Civil Rights Leader | Alabama State University |
| Benjamin Hooks - Civil Rights Leader | LeMoyne-Owen College |
| Andrew Young - Civil Rights Activist and Politician | Howard University |
| Fred Shuttlesworth - Civil Rights Activist | Alabama State College |
| Diane Nash - Civil Rights Activist | Fisk University |
| Julian Bond - Civil Rights Leader | Morehouse College |
| Marian Wright Edelman - Activist for Children's Rights | Spelman College |
| Booker T. Washington - Educator and Civil Rights Leader | Hampton Normal and Agricultural Institute |
| Leon Sullivan - Civil Rights Leader and Social Activist | West Virginia State College |
Allow these stories remind you of how important HBCUs are for building leadership and community service. Some of the same schools that these famous HBCU graduates went through may have an effect on your own path.
Icons in Arts, Science, and Entertainment
The number of famous HBCU graduates who have passed through HBCU halls might surprise you. Let us honor those who have made a difference in the arts, sciences, and culture.
Famous HBCU Graduates in the Arts and Sciences
HBCUs have helped a lot of successful people start their jobs in the arts and sciences. Oprah Winfrey, the media mogul and activist, for example, started her rise to fame after going to Tennessee State University. Her impact on writing, the media, and charity shows how good the education and experiences are at HBCUs.
After attending an HBCU, both scientists and artists have done very well, showing that their skills are not limited to entertainment. These places create atmospheres that promote imagination and curiosity, which are very important in both the scientific and artistic fields.
HBCU Alumni in the Limelight
A lot of talented people who went to HBCUs now work in the entertainment business. Known for his strong roles, Samuel L. Jackson is a famous actor who learned how to do his job at Morehouse College. His many parts continue to inspire HBCU students who want to become actors.
| HBCU Alumni | Field | Notable Work |
|---|---|---|
| Oprah Winfrey | Media/Philanthropy | The Oprah Winfrey Show |
| Samuel L. Jackson | Acting | Pulp Fiction, Marvel Cinematic Universe |
| Spike Lee | Film Directing | Do the Right Thing, Malcolm X |
| Toni Morrison | Literature | Beloved, Song of Solomon |
| Taraji P. Henson | Acting | Empire, Hidden Figures |
| Katherine Johnson | Mathematics | NASA Space Missions |
| Erykah Badu | Music | Baduizm, Neo-Soul Movement |
| Chadwick Boseman | Acting | Black Panther, 42 |
| Langston Hughes | Literature | The Weary Blues, Harlem Renaissance |
| Phylicia Rashad | Acting | The Cosby Show, A Raisin in the Sun |
| Common | Music/Acting | Be, John Wick: Chapter 2 |
| George Washington Carver | Science | Agricultural Innovations |
| Alice Walker | Literature | The Color Purple |
| Debbie Allen | Dance/Acting | Fame, Grey's Anatomy |
| W.E.B. Du Bois | Literature/Sociology | The Souls of Black Folk |
| Ralph Ellison | Literature | Invisible Man |
| Lionel Richie | Music | Hello, Commodores |
| Roscoe Lee Browne | Acting | Stage and Film Career |
| Stephen A. Smith | Sports Journalism | ESPN Commentator |
| Sean “Diddy” Combs | Music/Entrepreneurship | Music Production, Fashion |
| DJ Envy | Music/Radio | The Breakfast Club, DJ Career |
| Will Packer | Film Producing | Girls Trip, Think Like a Man |
| Aisha 'Pinky' Cole | Entrepreneurship | Founder of Slutty Vegan |
| Anika Noni Rose | Acting | Dreamgirls, The Princess and the Frog |
| 2 Chainz | Music | Rap Music, Multiple Hit Albums |
| Megan Thee Stallion | Music | Rap Artist, 'Savage' |
| Hadiyah-Nicole Green | Science | Laser cancer treatment |
Not only do HBCUs help students get into the arts and sciences, but they can also help them get into the entertainment business. Their graduates carry on the HBCU tradition, showing that these schools are places where great people are born.
HBCU Sports Legends
If you think of HBCUs, you might right away picture a long history of cultural roots and excellent education. They also make a big difference in the world of sports, which is something else that makes them stand out. Many great athletes have come from HBCUs. These athletes have not only done great on the field, but they have also left an indelible mark on the past of sports.
Famous HBCU Athlete Graduates
Tennessee State University, in particular, has been the starting point for a lot of famous athletes. Williams Rudolph was a great runner who had polio as a child but went on to win three gold medals in track and field at the 1960 Olympics in Rome. You should include her time at Tennessee State in your list of successes because that's where she got her unmatched skills.
Althea Gibson, a Florida A&M University (FAMU) alumna, broke barriers as the first African-American to win a Grand Slam in tennis. Her victories in the 1950s, notably at Wimbledon and the U.S. Open, set a precedent in a then predominantly white sport. Gibson's journey at FAMU not only sharpened her skills but also fortified her resilience, making her a symbol of enduring excellence and courage in both sports and society.
Also from this prestigious school is Ed “Too Tall” Jones. Jones was an intimidating defensive end who stood 6 feet 9 inches tall. You may remember him for being a powerful force in the NFL while playing for the Dallas Cowboys, making opponents afraid of his reach and strength.
People remember Charles Oakley as a great student at Virginia Union and later as an NBA power forward. His name is tied with hard work and success. Oakley led Virginia Union to the CIAA championship in 1985, showing how determined and strong of a leader he was. These were traits that he used throughout his working life.
These players are just a few of the all-time greats in HBCU sports. They have sped, tackled, and shot their way into history, leaving stories that will live on in the halls of HBCUs across the country and inspire future generations.
| Notable Athletes | HBCU Attended |
|---|---|
| Jerry Rice - Retired NFL Hall of Famer and Super Bowl Champion | Mississippi Valley State University |
| Art Shell - 1st African-American Head Coach in the modern NFL era | University of Maryland Eastern Shore |
| Francena Mccorory - Track and Field Olympic Gold Medalist | Hampton University |
| Michael Strahan - Retired NFL Hall of Famer and Super Bowl Champion | Texas Southern University |
| Walter Payton - Retired NFL Hall of Famer | Jackson State University |
| Shannon Sharpe - Retired NFL Hall of Famer | Savannah State University |
| Rick Mahorn - Retired NBA Champion | Hampton University |
| Willie Lanier - Retired NFL Hall of Famer | Morgan State University |
| Althea Gibson - Tennis and Golf Champion | Florida A&M University |
| Willie Davenport - Olympic Track and Field Athlete | Southern University |
| Mel Blount - Retired NFL Hall of Famer | Southern University |
| Deacon Jones - Retired NFL Hall of Famer | South Carolina State University |
| Bob Hayes - Retired NFL Player and Olympic Gold Medalist | Florida A&M University |
| Doug Williams - Super Bowl Winning Quarterback | Grambling State University |
| Steve McNair - Retired NFL Player | Alcorn State University |
| Lou Brock - Retired MLB Hall of Famer | Southern University |
Frequently Asked Questions
Who are some prominent entertainers and artists who graduated from HBCUs?
Among the artists and entertainers who have graced the stages and screens, Spike Lee, a filmmaker known for his impactful works, graduated from Morehouse College. Actress Keshia Knight Pulliam, renowned for her role on ‘The Cosby Show,' is a proud Spelman College alumna.
Can you name notable women who are famous HBCU graduates and have made significant contributions to their fields?
Notable women who have walked the hallowed halls of HBCUs include Stacey Abrams, the political trailblazer from Spelman College, and Oprah Winfrey, a media proprietor and philanthropist who attended Tennessee State University.
What are some of the most prestigious HBCUs known for their influential alumni?
Howard University is a well-known HBCU that has produced important people such as Kamala Harris, the first female vice president of the United States, and Thurgood Marshall, the first African American Supreme Court Justice. It's also worth mentioning that Spelman and Morehouse Colleges have produced many successful alumni in a wide range of areas.
Which HBCU alumni have notably impacted civil rights and social justice movements?
Revered civil rights leader Martin Luther King Jr., graduated from Morehouse College. His profound influence on the civil rights movement is revered worldwide. Additionally, attorney and political leader Stacey Abrams, a Spelman alumna, continues to work tirelessly for voting rights and social justice.
Who are some of the wealthiest individuals who received their education from HBCUs?
While there isn't a full list of the richest people who went to HBCUs, it is known that famous HBCU graduates like Oprah Winfrey, who went to Tennessee State University, have become very successful and wealthy. Winfrey is known as one of the richest people in the world. She is a television mogul and philanthropist. The story of her success is an example to many and shows that HBCU graduates can do great things.
What key political figures in history have an HBCU background?
HBCUs have educated numerous key political figures, such as Kamala Harris, Howard University alumna and the current vice president of the United States, as well as Thurgood Marshall from Howard University, who significantly impacted the legal landscape as a Supreme Court Justice.
Hey everyone, I'm Richard Gibson, the original HBCU enthusiast in our family and a proud member of the FAMU Class of 1969. You could say I've been living and breathing the HBCU spirit for quite a while now. Not only am I a die-hard supporter of my alma mater, but I also champion HBCUs far and wide. My background's a bit of a mix – healthcare, logistics, business, marketing, and higher education – and I love bringing all that experience to the table here. Whether it's sharing insights or just spreading the HBCU love, I'm all about keeping our community vibrant and strong. Let's keep this legacy going!
One notable, or glaring, omission: Hon. L.Douglas Wilder; first elected Black governor, mayor of Richmond, VA. Graduate of Virginia Union and Howard Law
Spelling error – “Historically Black Colleges and Universities have played a vital role in the life of the nation since their earliest days in the 1800s. Although a few, including Cheney State, were founded in the period before Emancipation, many were founded in the years towards the end of the Civil War, and soon thereafter. – See more at: https://hbculifestyle.com/famous-hbcu-graduates/#comments”
Correct spelling – Cheyney
Hoyt
Cheyney Alumnus Class of ’97
Thank you for bringing this to our attention Hoyt. We appreciate your support. This error has been corrected.
Not sure why the late Ed Bradley, journalist and longtime correspondent for 60 minutes was not mentioned. Ed Bradley graduated from Cheyney University of Pennsylvania which was founded in 1837. He certainly blazed the trail for African Americans working in the field of journalism.
“The arts have been enriched by many HCBU alumni such as Morehouse College’s Langston Hughes, the poet whose work is standard reading now in many English classes.” Correction, Langston Hughes (Class of ’29) is an Alum of The Lincoln University.
Langston Hughes did not attend Lincoln University in Pennsylvania, where he was a classmate of Thurgood Marshall.
Thank you for bringing this to our attention. This has been corrected.
How do you write this and NOT mention Walter Payton? Just curious!