About Us
MEET JOURNEY TO HBCUs
Journey to HBCUs is more than just a program — it’s a community built to inspire, guide, and support students across the Greater Boston area as they explore pathways to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Founded in 2020, Journey to HBCUs is a 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization dedicated to helping high school students learn about, connect with, and prepare for success at HBCUs.
Each year, we expose students to a range of HBCUs, allowing them to experience different campuses and discover what makes each one special. Students who participate from 9th through 12th grade have the opportunity to visit up to 40 HBCU campuses during their time in the program — an unforgettable journey that celebrates the culture, history, and academic excellence of these remarkable institutions.
We believe every student deserves the tools and support to make confident, informed choices about their future. That’s why we focus on building awareness, offering guidance, and creating meaningful connections that empower students to take the next step in their educational journey. We’re dedicated to bridging students to the rich legacy and vibrant community of HBCUs — helping them explore new possibilities, build lasting confidence, and see themselves as part of a proud tradition of excellence.
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MEET OUR FOUNDER:
CANDRA DIXON
HER STORY:
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As a proud graduate of Boston Public Schools, I grew up unaware of the powerful legacy of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) — their history, culture, and the purpose behind their creation. I didn’t learn how these institutions were built to empower and uplift our community when others shut us out. Looking back, I realize that if I had truly understood their importance, I might have chosen to attend an HBCU myself.
Years later, as both a parent and an educator within the same school system, I saw that this lack of awareness still persists. Too many of our students are missing out on the opportunity to learn about these incredible institutions that were built for them. While guiding my oldest son through the college process, I saw firsthand how transformative HBCU exposure can be for Black students. That experience sparked something in me — a desire to change the narrative for students in my own community. I wanted to create a space where young people could learn about HBCUs, celebrate their heritage, support one another, and feel free to be their authentic selves. From that vision, Journey to HBCUs was born.​​
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Meet the Team
Administrative Team
Board of Directors
We’re More Than Just Tours.
Awareness
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Research and explore HBCUs to find the best fit for the students academic and personal goals.
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Provide insight about HBCUs and their contributions to higher education, culture, and society.
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Focus on the unique advantages and opportunities gained at HBCUs, such as diverse academic programs, supportive communities, and a rich cultural heritage that fosters a strong sense of tradition and belonging.
Exposure
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Host information sessions, college fairs, and campus tours (virtual or in-person) to connect students with HBCU representatives, alumni, and current students.
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Facilitate events and workshops that showcase the history, legacy, and culture of HBCUs, helping students understand how these institutions contribute to academic and personal growth.
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Provide interactive opportunities for students to engage with HBCU communities, fostering connections that inspire confidence and excitement about their college pathways.
Connections
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Build strong partnerships with HBCUs, local organizations, and community leaders to create a connected network of support, resources, and opportunities that empower students on their educational journeys.
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Develop mentorship programs that connect students with HBCU alumni, offering personalized guidance, encouragement, and insight throughout the college exploration and decision-making process.
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Strengthen community engagement by fostering collaborations that promote awareness of HBCU pathways and expand access to academic, financial, and leadership resources for students.