Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are more important than ever. Perhaps you are wondering: “Well, what exactly is an HBCU? Or maybe you are saying to yourself: “Renee, why are HBCUs important to the credit union system?” Well friend, I’m glad you asked. The 107 HBCUs across the country were established before the Civil Rights Act of 1964 with the mission to serve and educate the African American community. These epicenters of culture and higher education were founded on the belief that every individual ought to receive a strong education despite their ethnicity, race, or income level. With over 25% of African Americans earning their degree from an HBCU, it is no doubt that HBCUs have played an instrumental role in the development of African American professionals. I am a former instructor for Spelman College’s Continuing Education Department and my 7 years at the college were eye-opening.