HBCU College & Cultural Tour
Our HBCU College & Cultural Tour takes place every spring break, offering high school students an enriching experience that exposes them to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) as well as other culturally significant historical and national landmarks. This tour is designed to inspire and educate students, broadening their horizons and deepening their understanding of their heritage and history.
In 2024, the tour covered the Northeast, visiting prestigious institutions such as Howard University, Hampton University, Bowie State University, Coppin State University, Lincoln University (PA), and Cheyney University.
In 2023, the tour focused on the Mid-South, including Lincoln University (Missouri), the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff, Grambling State University, Fisk University, Jackson State University, Tennessee State University, and Southern University.
Through these visits, students gain valuable insights into the academic and cultural environments of HBCUs, helping them make informed decisions about their educational futures.
Eligibility Criteria for HBCU College Tour
There are limited slots available for the HBCU college tour, which includes hotel accommodations, charter bus transportation, and admission to historical/cultural attractions and amusement parks.
Cost:
- Non-Springfield Urban League (21CCLC/Project Ready Participants): $1,000/student
- 21CCLC/Project Ready Participants: Free (with meeting criteria)
Eligibility Requirements: To increase your chances of securing a free slot, consider the following criteria. While not all are mandatory, the more you fulfill, the better your chances:
- Program Participation:
- Student attends at least 45 program days of Urban League programming (21CCLC, TeenReach, Project Ready).
- Assessment Completion:
- Student completes the College & Career Assessment with their Site Coordinator.
- Parent/Guardian Engagement:
- Parent/Guardian participates in 2 parent engagement activities, which may include:
- Financial Aid Workshop
- College Countdown: A Workshop for First-Time Parents
- Parent/Guardian participates in 2 parent engagement activities, which may include:
- Community Engagement:
- Participation in a community engagement activity, such as:
- HBCU/State College Fair
- Participation in a community engagement activity, such as:
- Additional Activities: (optional but beneficial)
- Participation in leadership programs or workshops.
- Attendance at college preparation sessions or seminars.
- Involvement in extracurricular activities or clubs related to college readiness.
- Letter of Recommendation from Site Coordinator
- Priority Consideration:
- Priority will be given to students based on grade level as follows:
- Current Juniors
- Seniors
- Sophomores
- Freshmen
- Priority will be given to students based on grade level as follows:
For more information contact our Education and School Age Youth Director Jasmin Woolfolk at jwoolfolk@springfieldul.org or call (217) 789-0830 ext. 1129.