Historically Black Colleges and Universities Week

By virtue of the authority vested by the Constitution of Virginia in the Governor of the Commonwealth of Virginia, there is hereby officially recognized:

Historically Black Colleges and Universities Week

WHEREAS, Historically Black Colleges and Universities have played a vital role in educating and empowering generations of leaders who have made lasting contributions to the Commonwealth of Virginia and our nation in business, government, academia, science, technology, and other fields; and

WHEREAS, many Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) were founded during periods of segregation and racial discrimination when Black Americans were denied equal access to institutions of higher education; and

WHEREAS, since their founding, Historically Black Colleges and Universities have expanded access to higher education for students of all backgrounds, fostering academic excellence, leadership, and achievement and affirming the importance of equitable educational opportunities to the strength of our nation; and

WHEREAS, Virginia is home to five Historically Black Colleges and Universities-Norfolk State University, Virginia State University, Hampton University, Virginia Union University, and Virginia University of Lynchburg-which have made significant contributions to higher education and the Commonwealth; and

WHEREAS, Historically Black Colleges and Universities Week provides an opportunity to celebrate and honor the profound contributions of Historically Black Colleges and Universities and their enduring impact on the Commonwealth and our nation; and

WHEREAS, the Commonwealth of Virginia remains committed to supporting and strengthening Virginia's Historically Black Colleges and Universities and advancing their continued contributions to higher education;

NOW, THEREFORE, I, Abigail D. Spanberger, Governor, do hereby recognize September 21-27, 2026, as HISTORICALLY BLACK COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES WEEK in the COMMONWEALTH OF VIRGINIA, and I call this observance to the attention of all our citizens.