Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)

Historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) have long served as engines of academic excellence, leadership and workforce development, and economic opportunity. They have helped cultivate generations of leaders, innovators, researchers, educators, and public servants whose contributions have improved health, wellbeing and prosperity across the Nation.

In support of Executive Order 14283, which established the White House Initiative to Promote Excellence and Innovation at Historically Black Colleges and Universities, HHS OMH is building and growing our partnerships with HBCUs to improve access to federal resources and opportunities. This page will be updated regularly with new events, funding and grant opportunities, and other resources that support HBCUs.

HHS Annual HBCU Plan

In accordance with the HBCU PARTNERS Act, HHS OMH is responsible for developing and submitting the annual “HBCU HHS Agency Plan to Increase Support and Opportunities for HBCUs” on behalf of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. This plan outlines HHS-wide efforts to increase engagement with HBCUs and strengthen their capacity to address HHS goals and priorities.

2026 HBCU Listening Session

As part of our efforts to strengthen engagement with HBCUs, HHS OMH will host a listening session with HBCUs to share the goals of the White House Initiative on HBCUs and obtain ideas on how to advance the mission of Executive Order 14283. We hope to learn how HBCUs are engaging the private sector, explore their current capacities to serve the Nation’s young adults, and develop actionable insights on expanding pathways for HBCU participation in HHS programs and initiatives.

More to come. Subscribe to receive the latest news and updates about this important HHS OMH initiative and our ongoing efforts to engage and support HBCUs.