The Power of Legacy: Why HBCU Business Deans Celebrate History and Bethune-Cookman University's 120th Birthday

Happy 120th Birthday, Bethune-Cookman University! This celebration isn’t just about marking the passage of time but honoring the legacy of a rich institution that has played a vital role in shaping generations of African American leaders. As we reflect on the university’s remarkable history, it’s important to recognize why legacy matters—and how HBCUs are integral to the past, present, and future of African American leadership, education, and innovation.

Legacy as a Foundation for Growth

Bethune-Cookman University, like many other HBCUs, stands as a symbol of resilience and perseverance. Founded in 1904 by Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, a visionary educator and civil rights activist, the university has been a beacon of hope and a powerful force for change. Institutions like Bethune-Cookman laid the foundation for countless leaders who have made profound contributions to society, often in the face of adversity. For HBCU business schools, celebrating and understanding this legacy is crucial for cultivating leaders who are not only grounded in their history but also ready to address future challenges.

Why HBCUs Matter in Business and Leadership

HBCUs are more than academic institutions; they are incubators of talent, creativity, and leadership. With a strong emphasis on mentorship, community engagement, and holistic education, HBCU business schools empower students to think critically, innovate, and pursue careers with a sense of purpose. In particular, they provide a unique environment where students of color can see themselves reflected in both faculty and curriculum—something that remains rare in predominantly white institutions.

As the HBCU Business Deans Roundtable works to elevate business programs across the country, the importance of legacy becomes even more pronounced. When students can draw inspiration from their institution’s history and the achievements of its alumni, they are better equipped to lead with confidence and a deep sense of responsibility.

The Path Forward: Fostering Tomorrow’s Leaders

Bethune-Cookman’s 120th anniversary is not just a milestone; it is a reminder of the enduring impact that HBCUs continue to have on society. From nurturing African American entrepreneurs to fostering civic engagement, HBCU business schools are producing the leaders of tomorrow—those who will solve some of the most pressing economic, social, and political challenges of our time. The deans at these institutions understand that their students' success is deeply tied to understanding their past and using that knowledge to forge a brighter future.

As we celebrate Bethune-Cookman’s legacy, we are reminded that history is not static. It is a living force that propels us forward, and HBCUs are central to that journey. For the National HBCU Business Deans Roundtable, the goal is clear: to continue cultivating students who appreciate their legacy, understand the weight of the history behind them, and use that foundation to make meaningful contributions in their chosen fields.

By remembering our past, we prepare our students to create a future filled with possibility. Let’s continue to honor the legacy of institutions like Bethune-Cookman University and the vital role they play in shaping tomorrow’s leaders.