Empowering Futures: How a St. Paul Woman is Transforming College Access Through Engaging Campus Tours

ST. PAUL, Minn. — For over 35 years, Jo Ann Clark has dedicated her life to ensuring young people receive a quality education.

She started the Thinking College Early Fair. For the last two decades, she has brought more than 1,000 young Black students on exciting tours of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs).

Clark wants students to realize the significance of education. “Education can take many forms—whether it’s a four-year college, a trade school, or military service,” she says. “What matters is that they pursue what they love.”

Clark partnered with Progressive Baptist Church to make the annual tour happen. She believes it’s crucial for students to see leaders who look like them. “In St. Paul, students can go through school for 12 years and hardly see anyone who looks like them in positions of power,” she explains.

The excitement in the students is palpable. Each one has their own reasons for wanting to go on this journey. Kaya Williams, a junior at DeLaSalle High School, shares her hopes: “I want to discover opportunities in college and sports, meet new friends, and find where I belong.” Carmine Perzichilli is considering schools like Tuskegee for its tech program and Florida A&M University for its vibrant culture.

Clark aims for these students to truly experience the unique culture at HBCUs. “They come back knowing who they are and learning their history. HBCUs emphasize their heritage right from day one,” she states.

Before hitting the road, students gather at the church to hear stories from community leaders who attended HBCUs. St. Paul Mayor Melvin Carter graduated from Central High School in 1997 and recalls his first visit to Florida A&M University. “It felt like I had found my true home,” he reflects, recalling the brilliant individuals he met there.

Clark hopes the 65 students on this year’s tour will have transformative experiences as well. Rev. Dr. Melvin G. Miller reminds them, “You will visit institutions that have strengthened the Black community since the Civil War.”

After a group prayer, the students board buses to explore various HBCUs. The experience is often described as priceless.

Clark has not only arranged these tours but has also raised over $1 million in scholarships and provided support through care packages for students pursuing their degrees. All three of her children graduated from HBCUs, with her daughter set to take over as chairperson of the Black college tour.

Importantly, HBCUs welcome students from all backgrounds. In 2022, non-Black students made up 24% of the enrollment at HBCUs, a significant increase from 15% in 1976.

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Higher Education, Minnesota, College, Black History Month, Education, HBCU