Frequently Asked Questions
The following are Frequently Asked Questions which
the NBCA receives from many prospective members and friends of the organization. Please
feel free to contact us if you need any additional information.
Why should I join the National Black College Alliance?
We believe that black colleges are national treasures
and outstanding places to document and research the building of African American education
in America. These resources should be viewed as “sacred ground” and be protected
and supported by the network of the communities they serve. As a member of the National
Black College Alliance, you will be joining a tradition that began over 150 years ago,
which people of color in this nation recognize as a driving force. Your involvement,
through volunteering and philanthropy are ways to protect these precious institutions that
have helped build this country.
Can I join the NBCA if I went to a predominantly white institution like Harvard
University, Cornell University or Syracuse University?
Of course you can join. NBCA believes that its strength
lies within the diversity of its membership. Everyone can play a part whether you are high
school student, college student, corporate executive, teacher, or alumni of an HBCU. Our
membership policy does not restrict members as long as they abide by our ideals, guiding
principles, and mission statement and objectives.
How do I join as a member of the NBCA?
You can join by attending a national or local meeting
of the National Black College Alliance or join simply online by going to
www.nbcalliance.org and clicking Join Now! Enter your basic information and background.
Dues paying members are offered a special privilege through the Alliance. You may submit a
picture if you like. It will be displayed through our Members Only Section, exclusive for
our dues paying members who are interested in learning about new professional development
activities as well as networking with the nation’s next generation of civic leaders.
What does philanthropy and volunteerism mean?
Philanthropy is the practice of applying assets of
knowledge, passion and wealth to bring about constructive change. Volunteerism is the free
will offering of oneself for any service. Our definition philanthropy and volunteerism
means the extent that your avail yourself to others, not expecting anything back in
return. These ideas exemplify the true spirit of the NBCA and our mission.
What are HBCUs?
HBCUs are postsecondary academic institutions founded
before 1965, whose educational mission has historically been the education of Black
Americans. Located primarily in the southeastern United States, there are now about 120
HBCUs in existence, a mix of community and junior colleges, four-year colleges and
universities, and public and private institutions.
Does the organization only promote historically black colleges and
universities?
The National Black College Alliance first and foremost promotes education; and, that
people of color receive several options for their educational status. It is also our goal
to highlight the rich history, tremendous contributions, and true value HBCUs hold and
offer the community.
How can I donate to the NBCA?
You can donate to the National Black College Alliance through our NBCA staff members (you
can contact us through our web page information), or go to Donate Now! All gifts are
appreciated and tax-deductible.
Can I sign my friend up as a member of the NBCA?
You are able to sign-up your friends as members of the National Black College Alliance as
long as you have their information. Our strength lies in our most precious resource, our
members.
In what ways can I volunteer as a member?
Please refer to our web page JOIN Now! Which will provide you a list of volunteer options
for the National Black College Alliance. The options presented offer diverse pathways to
giving of your time. All suggestions and ideas for volunteering are welcomed.
What is your relationship to HBCUs and alumni
associations?
The Alliance works closely with the administration of HBCUs and local and national alumni
associations. It is through these associations and close ties that our national network is
able to work successfully.
Does NBCA provide scholarship assistance to
students who attend college, especially historically black colleges and universities?
Although there are limited dollars available, the NBCA does supply limited scholarship
assistance for at-risk and low-income students. Additionally, the NBCA works closely with
the Thurgood Marshall Fund, the United Negro College Fund, and the Gates Millennium Fund,
all which provide scholarship assistance to individuals seeking financial support. For
more information, please contact the organizations.
Do you work with middle school students and grammar
school students?
The National Black College Alliance works closely with high school students in urban
cities as its primary target. However, as we expand, programs are being formed to further
connect with, and assist students at the middle- and grammar-school level, exposing them
to these institutions.
How can I start an NBCA affiliate in my city?
If you are interested in starting an NBCA affiliate in your city, please contact George
Greenidge at (617) 442-8045 for more detailed information on this work. It is our goal to
have representation in all regions, particularly the urban areas of our HBCU network.
Does the NBCA sponsor Black College Tours?
The National Black College Alliance does sponsor mini-black tours visiting three colleges
or universities on several weekends throughout the year. Additionally, the NBCA partners
with several community-based organizations and churches that sponsor tours of HBCUs.
Towards this end, the NBCA does supply limited scholarship assistance for at-risk and
low-income students. For more information on black college tours, please contact our
office at (617) 442-8045.
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