Destination HBCU: College Fair

We are delighted to extend an enthusiastic invitation to join us for the 22nd Annual Destination HBCU College Fair Weekend, taking place from November 21-24, 2024. This year, we are proud to present a theme that speaks directly to the heart of the HBCU experience: "They Not Like Us – Where Excellence Has No Equal."

This theme celebrates the unmatched journey that awaits every student who chooses an HBCU, a journey marked by pride, resilience, and a steadfast commitment to excellence. The HBCU experience is one where education goes beyond the classroom, where students are empowered, affirmed, and inspired to embrace their roots and take pride in their unique paths. It is a celebration of identity, heritage, and the bright futures that HBCUs help shape.

We invite you to be a part of this extraordinary event, which is more than just a college fair—it's a celebration of what makes HBCUs truly exceptional. Here, excellence isn’t just a goal; it’s a way of life. HBCUs provide a space where students are encouraged to define their own success and where their cultural and educational experiences are enriched by a community that values and upholds the highest standards.

We encourage you to mark your calendars and join us in celebrating the HBCU legacy. Your participation will not only enrich your own experience but will also contribute to the empowerment of the next generation, helping them to be proud of who they are, where they come from, and where they are going. Don’t miss this opportunity to be part of a truly transformative event—where excellence has no equal!

For continual updates on the Destination HBCU College Fair, visit the college fair website at www.DestinationHBCU.org. 

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The Cleveland Council of Black Colleges Alumni Association proudly organizes this event, uniting graduates and supporters of accredited HBCUs in the Greater Cleveland area. This year’s fair will feature a variety of opportunities, including the chance for high school seniors and college transfer students to complete the Common Black College Application, connecting them with over 60 HBCUs through a single submission. On-the-spot acceptances and scholarship offers will be available, along with engaging workshops, vendor interactions, and resources that cover everything from career development to health and wellness.
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At the fair, high school seniors and college transfer students will have the unique opportunity to complete the Common Black College Application, allowing them to apply to more than 60 HBCUs with just one submission. Many students may even receive on-the-spot acceptances and scholarship offers. Additionally, attendees will engage with vendors and participate in workshops covering a wide range of topics, all designed to empower and inspire them to be proud of who they are, where they come from, and where they want to go.

• Career Opportunities & Internships: Organizations offering employment opportunities, internships, training, and career development resources.
• Scholarships/Financial Aid: Programs and organizations providing financial support and scholarships to college-bound students.
• Youth Programming: Groups and agencies offering educational services, after-school programs, mentoring, and social/emotional development for youth.
• Fraternities/Sororities: Greek-letter organizations that provide scholarships, mentoring, and leadership development.
• Health and Wellness: Organizations focused on promoting healthy lifestyles, including active living, nutrition, and wellness programs.
• Community Service: Groups offering opportunities for community service and volunteerism. 
• Social Services: Providers of services and programs aimed at supporting the overall well-being of families and individuals.

PROGRAM GOALS
From the rigorous academic offerings, legacy, historic landmarks, influential graduates, and student engagement; HBCUs are truly a DESTINATION where students can fulfill their dreams and prepare for the challenges ahead. The HBCUs represented at the fair and other exhibitors in attendance will certainly add value to the scholars served – to allow them to witness and understand the proud history and traditions of HBCUs while still proving their relevance of today and how they can prosper as a student for the next four years.
 
The goals of the fair are to:

• Increase college enrollment in under-served and under-represented populations of the community;
• Educate the community about the value of Historically Black Colleges and Universities;
• Allow participants to become familiar with a variety of financial aid programs and educational resources;
• Connect post-secondary options to a student's career, internship, and vocational interest and opportunities; and
• Provide relevant programming that showcases student achievement, talents, and philanthropy.

 

Check out the impact for yourself from our 2021 event. Here is a video clip that was prepared by our program partners the Cleveland Cavaliers and the National Basketball Association.

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2018 Event - Photo credits compliments of Wake Up Call Media

2017 Event - Photo credits compliments of Wake Up Call Media