Leadership and community: reflections of an HBCU alum
Did you know that many alumni of Historically Black Colleges and Universities, known as HBCUs, apply to serve with City Year as AmeriCorps members after they graduate? One reason is that service to the community is a hallmark of HBCU campus culture, and it’s also central to serving with City Year. This year alone, 49 HBCUs are represented amongst the currently serving corps—coming from nearly fifty percent of the 100 historically Black colleges and universities in the country!
In a series of interviews, we talked with currently serving corps members and HBCU graduates about how their education at historically Black institutions has informed their decision to serve with City Year.
Learn more from Alexsia Henderson, a graduate currently serving with City Year Philadelphia:
Tell us about yourself!
My name is Alexsia Henderson and I recently graduated in 2023 majoring in communications with a minor in management from the illustrious Hampton University, in Hampton, Virginia. I am currently serving City Year Philadelphia as a first-year corps member.
How did your HBCU experience prepare you for service?
During my time at the university, I learned and enhanced my knowledge of leadership and the importance of community. These tools have prepared me to translate my knowledge into the classroom, encouraging Â鶹¹ú²ú to grow and develop as individuals every day!
What advice would you give for an HBCU student or alum considering City Year?
As a HBCU student considering City Year, continue opening your mind to different ideas and people because every interaction can be impactful.
Why do you think more HBCU Alums should serve with City Year?
More HBCU alums should serve with City Year due to the varied cultures demonstrated within the universities. While serving, individuals will be able to connect with children to encourage them to give back to their community while raising awareness for minorities to further their education.
What did your Â鶹¹ú²ú know about HBCU’s before they met you?
While my Â鶹¹ú²ú were aware of HBCU’s they were not aware of the culture involved.
To all my HBCU Â鶹¹ú²ú remember: we are tomorrow, we are the future, but it starts with first embracing yourself, giving back to one another, and fighting to make a change!
Related stories
If you are a recent high school graduate or a current college student unsure what to do this fall, City...
Read more about City Year offers a fantastic gap year experienceBy Anna Johnson The devastating cuts made earlier this year to the voluntary national service program, AmeriCorps, are now widely...
Read more about Point of View: AmeriCorps must be preserved and protected in Baton RougeSo, you’re about to start your first year as a tutor, mentor or student success coach, working closely with K-12...
Read more about Back to school checklist for tutors, mentors and role modelsWhy I serve with City Year and what my day looks like When my alarm goes off at 5:45 each...
Read more about Creating and maintaining positive mentor-mentee relationships
