A historically Black college in Oakland, California? A task force is dreaming

A task force is quietly working to bring a historically Black college or university (HBCU) to Oakland, California. Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee serves as a central figure in this effort. There are only a few HBCUs in the country, most established after the Civil War, with the West Coast limited to Charles R. Drew University of Medicine and Science in Los Angeles.

The Oakland HBCU initiative, led by Mayor Lee and a group of community members, aims to expand higher education options in Oakland. The task force is conducting a feasibility study to assess the potential economic impacts and identify growth industries in the area. They are considering several options, including a satellite campus, a hub center for multiple colleges, or a partnership with the Peralta Community Colleges District.

Despite previous interest from other HBCUs, the city is now focusing on securing a location and finalizing partnerships. HBCUs offer culturally relevant education, which could encourage students to stay in California and take advantage of high-wage STEM careers in the Bay Area. However, few students currently transfer from community colleges to HBCUs, highlighting the need for increased awareness and accessibility.