Wilberforce University in Ohio has reached a notable milestone: its undergraduate student body is now evenly divided between men and women. This achievement is significant, especially considering that nationally, the ratio tends to favor women, with about 57% female students compared to 43% male. In Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), the gender gap is even wider, with women making up around 74% of the student population.
Wilberforce’s balanced enrollment of 50% men and 48% women reflects deliberate efforts to engage African American men in higher education. President Vann Newkirk pointed out that introducing traditionally male-focused majors like engineering has contributed significantly to this change. Additionally, bringing back sports like baseball has attracted more Black male students.
Newkirk highlighted a national trend showing a decline in African American male enrollment at colleges. In response, Wilberforce proactively addressed this issue by researching what young Black men want from their college experience. They found a strong interest in areas like engineering and athletic training, prompting the university to tailor its offerings.
Retention is another critical focus at Wilberforce. Currently, 73% of male students continue to their second year. The goal is to boost the graduation rate for Black men from 30% to 50%, through enhanced programs supporting academic success. Newkirk emphasized that it’s not just about earning degrees but also about securing good jobs. The university has ramped up its cooperative education initiatives to aid job placement, aiming to help 65% of male graduates find work in Ohio.
Athletics play a key role in this effort too. The possibility of reintroducing football is generating excitement among students and has sparked interest from high school athletes. Coach Roosevelt Barnes mentioned that establishing a football program would boost overall campus spirit and attract more prospective students.
The supportive campus environment at Wilberforce is crucial. Eric Jackson, Senior Vice President of Student Engagement, remarked on the familial atmosphere that resonates with students. He believes this environment fosters a strong sense of belonging, which is vital for male students in particular.
Wilberforce also focuses on helping students envision their futures. Regular career fairs and direct guidance help connect students with various career pathways and opportunities. The university strives to understand and meet the unique needs of its students, which is central to its success.
While there’s still work to be done to improve retention and graduation rates, Wilberforce’s proactive approach serves as an insightful model for addressing the challenges faced by young Black men in higher education. By listening to students and adapting to their needs, Wilberforce demonstrates the importance of creating an inclusive and supportive educational environment.
Source link
Vann Newkirk,Marybeth Gasman,Rutgers University,Wilberforce University,gender parity,Black men in college,New York Times and HBCUs,Roosevelt Barnes,Eric Jackson,HBCUs
