Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have long been incubators of excellence, empowering generations of students to break barriers and make history. For women, in particular, these institutions have provided a foundation to thrive in spaces where they were often underestimated. From civil rights activism to entertainment, sports and STEM, women who have attended an HBCU have demonstrated leadership and resilience. As we celebrate Women’s History Month, let’s recognize a few of these trailblazers who have left a mark across industries and generations.
Katherine Johnson – The Human Computer
You can’t talk about Black women breaking barriers without mentioning Katherine Johnson, a proud alumna of West Virginia State University. Her genius in mathematics propelled her to NASA, where her calculations were critical to America’s space missions, including John Glenn’s historic orbit around Earth in 1962 and for the Apollo 11 Mission of 1969. At a time when both racial and gender biases were at their peak, Johnson’s brilliance and perseverance helped pave the way for women of color in STEM.
Kamala Harris – Breaking Political Glass Ceilings
From Howard University to the White House, Kamala Harris made history as the first woman, first Black and first South Asian vice president of the United States. Harris had previously served in the U.S. Senate and as attorney general of California, where she became the first woman and the first Black American to hold the position. Her journey from “The Mecca” to the global political stage is a testament to the power of HBCUs in shaping strong, ambitious leaders. Harris inspires HBCU students for several reasons, including pursuing a legal degree or aiming for the highest office in the land.
Toni Morrison – Literary Legend
A proud graduate of Howard University, Toni Morrison changed the literary world with her powerful storytelling and ability to capture the Black experience with depth and authenticity. The first Black woman to win the Nobel Prize in Literature, Morrison’s works—like Beloved and The Bluest Eye—remain essential reading today. She proved that HBCU women can shape narratives, challenge societal norms and leave a lasting literary legacy.
Keisha Lance Bottoms – Leading with Purpose
Keisha Lance Bottoms, the former mayor of Atlanta, is an alumna of Florida A&M University. During her tenure, she navigated the city through challenging times, from social justice protests to public health crises. A champion for equity and progress, Bottoms represents the strength and dedication that HBCU women bring to public service.
Taraji P. Henson – Hollywood Trailblazer
Academy Award-nominated actress Taraji P. Henson is a graduate of Howard University where she studied theater. Henson took the entertainment world by storm with her dynamic acting performances, from “Hustle & Flow” to “Empire.” Not only has she broken barriers in Hollywood, but she has also used her platform to advocate for mental health awareness in the Black community. Henson’s journey from HBCU student to award-winning actress is proof that talent, combined with an HBCU education, can take you anywhere.
The Legacy Continues
The impact of HBCU women doesn’t stop here. Every day, graduates from these institutions are making waves in their fields, proving that excellence and leadership are deeply ingrained in the HBCU experience. Whether in boardrooms, classrooms, laboratories or stadiums, HBCU women continue to shatter ceilings and uplift communities.
The Home Depot’s Commitment to HBCUs
The Home Depot’s Retool Your School program has been a game-changer for HBCUs, providing grants to improve campus facilities and enhance student experiences. By investing in HBCUs, The Home Depot reaffirms its commitment to fostering excellence and supporting the next generation of leaders who will continue to break barriers and shape the future.
Learn more about how The Home Depot’s Retool Your School program is making a difference and how you can get involved at RetoolYourSchool.com.