The Critical Role of HBCUs: From education to empowerment

I still remember the first time I set foot on the campus of Howard University . I visited on a college bus tour during high school and it was love at first sight. The buildings were beautiful and “The Yard” was bustling with activity as students and faculty crisscrossed the main quadrangle. But perhaps even more amazing was the university’s rich history, accomplished alums and dedication to fostering Black excellence.

I’m often asked for the most meaningful piece of advice I received during my time at Howard. For me, there was no single tip or insight that helped me succeed, but rather it was the unyielding expectation that we - as individuals - would be great. We were expected to meet challenges head on, ask for help if we needed it and perform at the highest levels. Simply put, we were expected to excel, and given the tools and support to do so, so we did. Like many others who have had the privilege to attend a Historically Black College and University (HBCU), I credit not only my success but also my societal outlook to my time at Howard. Education, diversity and development - these are the passions that guide my work today at PwC and they are the cornerstones of what makes HBCUs so important and valuable to students and society.

As a first-generation college student, I know the power of education and how it can change the trajectory of your life. I’ve spent the majority of my career focused on people and their experiences, and have seen how opening doors to new opportunities and building a more inclusive environment benefits our culture and individuals, as well as the communities and clients we serve. Most importantly, from my own experiences, I know that even with an education and an opportunity, it’s hard to make it on your own. That’s why one of greatest aspects that HBCUs provide is community - a support network of diverse people and perspectives that extends across campuses, companies and cultures, while a student and as an alum.

As I’ve grown in my career, that HBCU community has continued to grow right alongside me. One of my favorite events during the year is our HBCU Faculty Forum, which provides an opportunity to expand the impact that these colleges and universities have on students. We bring together faculty and staff to discuss important issues, build relationships and share resources to help prepare the next generation of the workforce. Initiatives like these help us empower HBCUs and I’m excited that our own community of alumni has continued to grow at PwC.

As we close out Black History Month, I had a chance to hear from some of my proud HBCU alumni colleagues at the firm. They shared how their own experiences have helped them pursue their personal purpose and offered insights for how we can all continue to uplift HBCUs moving forward.

How did your HBCU education help you discover your personal purpose?

“I boldly decided to leave home and attend college in another state six years ago. At the time, I didn’t know what to do. I was just a 17-year-old girl with a dream and a bus ticket. As I progressed on my journey, I found people along the way. That’s when I discovered the meaning of the saying, “it takes a village to raise a child.” So many people pour into me along the way. They taught me to believe in myself and overcome all obstacles. This stable and nurturing environment helped me discover my purpose.” - Tynisha Finister , Trust Solutions Associate, former While You Work - CPA Acceleration Program fellow and Prairie View A&M University alum

How have your experiences at PwC helped you identify your personal and professional passion points?

“I have been extremely fortunate and blessed that the firm has allowed me to find my passion points and explore them fully. While I do audits, I tell folks my true job is impacting and helping others. That is what drives me and gets me out of bed in the morning. Knowing that I am shaping the careers of others and what I am doing matters. The firm has allowed me to be a voice for the voiceless in so many ways and to dig deep into my passion of DE&I to represent not only myself, but the firm. I am so proud to work for a firm where I can be a leader in various spaces, regardless of my title, and to be seen, valued and appreciated.” - Clarissa D. Clark, MBA, CISA Trust Solutions Director and Florida A&M University alum

What piece of advice would you offer companies about how to better engage with HBCU students?

“Be genuine in your engagement with HBCU students. Listen with an intent to understand perspectives and be action oriented as you partner with them to achieve their career aspirations.” - Courtney Showell , Consulting Solutions Principal and Morehouse College alum

My time at Howard University set me on an incredible path full of new experiences, valuable learnings and life-long relationships, and I can’t wait to see the trails that the next generation of HBCU students and alumni blaze ahead.