Prairie View A&M University and Texas Southern University are stepping up their research game with the launch of a new group called the Association of HBCU Research Institutions (AHRI). This consortium includes 15 historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) aiming to improve visibility and funding for their research efforts.
At a recent event, Prairie View President Tomikia P. LeGrande highlighted the challenges HBCUs face. “We’re already working on important issues, but with more support, we could achieve even more,” she stated. The new consortium aims to change that by fostering collaboration between member institutions, enhancing research infrastructure, and attracting more grants.
HBCUs, historically underfunded, represent about 3% of four-year colleges but receive less than 1% of federal research and development funding, according to a 2025 report from the Center for American Progress and the Thurgood Marshall College Fund. In 2023, nearly half of federal agencies that distribute research funding did not allocate any funds to HBCUs.
Currently, only Howard University holds the prestigious “Research One” (R1) classification, while Prairie View and Texas Southern have “Research Two” (R2) status. LeGrande believes that with the right investment and effort, they can reach R1 status too.
In recent years, Prairie View reported $53 million in research spending, while Texas Southern had $52 million. The consortium will serve as an advocacy group, helping to raise awareness and support for HBCU research initiatives, shedding light on their unique contributions to fields like public health, agriculture, and technology.
AHRI also benefits from partnerships with prestigious institutions, including Harvard University, which provides technical assistance and funds through its “Harvard & the Legacy of Slavery Initiative.” This reflects a growing recognition of the important role HBCUs play in higher education and research.
Moreover, there has been a noticeable rise in social media conversations about the visibility and impact of HBCUs. Many users express excitement about these institutions gaining more recognition for their research, often highlighting the need for equitable funding across all universities.
LeGrande’s passion for advancing HBCUs is shared by other consortium leaders. Michelle John, TSU’s Vice President for Research and Innovation, emphasized the importance of collaboration, stating, “AHRI creates an important framework for collaboration among HBCUs expanding their research missions.”
Despite past funding challenges, the spirit of innovation and determination within these universities is paving the way for a brighter future in research. The AHRI consortium stands as a bold step toward ensuring that HBCUs are equipped to make substantial contributions to society and academia.
For an in-depth understanding of the funding disparities impacting HBCUs, you can explore this report by the Center for American Progress.
