Black History Month: The Talented Tenth are Alive and Well at Black Colleges

The Talented Tenth of the African-American race are thriving in Black Colleges. They are also networking amongst themselves on an annual Black college cruise.

New York, NY (PRWEB) January 29, 2004 --The Talented Tenth of the Negro race must be made leaders of thought and missionaries of culture among their people. No others can do this work and Negro colleges must train men for it." (W.E.B. Dubois, 1903)

Dubois dream is alive and well, and can be seen whenever you interact with a graduate of a historically Black college. While their ancestors didnt have the opportunity to attend college, many young Black men and women are seizing the chance to become a part of the Talented Tenth -- and on their own terms.

These extraordinary students with impressive GPAs and test scores didnt choose the traditional ivy leagues, such as Harvard and Princeton. They chose to fulfill their educational pursuits at their own ivy leagues, such as Howard, Hampton and Spelman, all historically Black colleges.

There are over 100 HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges & Universities) created with African-Americans in mind. While these schools enable students to learn about traditional college topics, students are also encouraged to embrace their heritage and develop leadership skills in a nurturing environment.

Notable HBCU alumni include: Oprah Winfrey (media), Thurgood Marshall (law), and Vernon Jordan (politics) -- just to name a few. These famous and influential individuals all benefited from the HBCU experience, and now, a new crop of Oprahs" and Thurgoods" is on the rise.

Just take a look at the 17,000 + member profiles on The HBCU Network (www.HBCUnetwork.com), and youll find executives in corporate America, politicians, entertainers and more businesses owners than you can possibly imagine -- all doing their part, as members of the Talented Tenth, to uplift their communities.

Through The HBCU Network, these HBCU alumni can not only keep current on issues affecting their schools and community, but they can also network with one another -- executives with entertainers, politicians with lawyers -- each member expanding his or her personal network, and making the Black community more of a community."

Members of The HBCU Network liken the sense of community the site provides to that of their college experience:

"I am very excited about finding this site and hopefully I can connect with some old friends and meet some new ones." Dorian P. Morehouse College, 1999 graduate

"I'm glad this site exists! Now is the time for us as black people to encourage and uplift our black communities! Thank you for sharing your gift." Ty H., HBCU Supporter, 1996 graduate

"Nice to find a site that feels like home" Linda E., Clark College, 1974 graduate

To celebrate their accomplishments, hundreds of HBCU alumni will set sail to the Bahamas during Memorial Day Weekend aboard Royal Caribbeans Majesty of the Seas (www.HBCUnetwork.com/cruise). The cruise promises to be an experience -- an opportunity to build relationships with tomorrows influential leaders.

It is important for the exceptional members of our community to have a place to gather and exchange ideas" explains Tamara Oyejide, co-founder of The HBCU Network. By providing such an outlet through The HBCU Network, the possibilities are endless."

As Dubois stated, The Negro race, like all races, is going to be saved by its exceptional men."

For information: http://www.HBCUnetwork.com or
Phone: (888) 345-1225
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