HBCU Presidents Announce Collaboration To Expand Research And Innovation

June 10, 2026

Fifteen high-capacity research institutions among America's historically Black colleges and universities have formed the Association of HBCU Research Institutions (ARHI), formally launched on April 29 at Howard University. The new umbrella organization aims to enhance research capabilities, advocate for increased funding from federal and philanthropic sources, and help more HBCUs achieve elite research status designations. Currently, Howard University is the only HBCU among over 100 institutions to hold the prestigious "R-1" very high research activity designation, which it regained in February 2025 after losing it in 2005.

Who is affected

Fifteen historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) that are founding members of ARHI
Howard University (the only R-1 designated HBCU)
The remaining fourteen founding ARHI partners classified as R-2 institutions
Students and faculty at these HBCUs conducting research
Dr. Wayne A.I. Frederick (interim president of Howard University and ARHI)
David K. Wilson (president of Morgan State University and inaugural board chair)
Tomikia P. LaGrande (president of Prairie View A&M University and board chair)
The broader Black community surrounding HBCU campuses

What action is being taken

Fifteen HBCUs have announced and formally launched the Association of HBCU Research Institutions
ARHI is being housed in the offices of the Association of American Universities
Harvard and The Legacy of Slavery Initiative are providing a three-year grant totaling one million dollars to support ARHI's initial work
Harvard University Vice Provost for Research is providing technical assistance

Why it matters

This represents a historic first in American higher education as it creates the first organization dedicated solely to enhancing HBCU research capabilities and advocating for increased research funding. The initiative addresses a significant disparity where only one HBCU out of over 100 has achieved R-1 "very high research activity" status, indicating systemic barriers that have limited HBCU participation in elite research. By bringing institutions that have traditionally worked in isolation into sustained collaboration with each other and leading research universities, ARHI aims to break through these barriers, expand HBCU influence in research policy circles, and strengthen the institutional infrastructure needed to compete for major research funding and recognition.

What's next

No explicit next steps stated in the article

Read full article from source: The San Diego Voice & Viewpoint