Navigating HBCUs: A Parent's Guide to Historically Black Colleges & Universities

Join Jessica, an HBCU admissions expert, and Carla, Senior Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions at Howard University, on Wednesday, February 18 at 4:00 PM PT / 7:00 PM ET.

Together, they’ll dive into the dynamic landscape of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), sharing practical insights on admissions, campus culture, and the powerful opportunities these institutions offer students today.

Helping Your Student Thrive at an HBCU Starts Here

As admissions policies shift and conversations around funding and DEI continue to evolve, families are navigating a rapidly changing college admissions landscape. At the same time, more students than ever are recognizing the value of HBCUs and setting their sights on these powerful institutions.

This parent-focused webinar is designed to help you confidently support your student through the HBCU admissions journey. Our experts will break down what distinguishes HBCUs, what families should consider when applying, and how your student can find their best-fit campus.

We’ll take a holistic look at how HBCUs nurture student identity, build community, and open doors to lifelong success.

✨ In this session, you’ll learn:

Why applications to HBCUs are increasing and how that impacts your student’s admissions strategy
How state and federal policy changes are influencing HBCU funding and DEI initiatives
Clear, step-by-step guidance through the application process, including tips for using the Common Black College Application (CBCA)
How financial aid works at HBCUs, and where to find scholarships

Bonus: All attendees will receive a free copy of our Collegewise Guide to HBCUs, filled with research, application tips, and expert insights to help your family navigate the process with confidence.

Carla Goodwin

Senior Assistant Director Of Undergraduate Admissions at Howard University

After graduating from Georgetown University with a double major in Psychology and African American Studies, Carla quickly discovered her fascination with college admissions—an intricate process she sees as one of the world’s true wonders. Driven by a passion for connecting with others, she launched her career as an Admissions Counselor at George Mason University, where she now serves as the Assistant Director of Undergraduate Admissions. As the visit experience manager, Carla curates meaningful campus and virtual experiences for students and families from all backgrounds, helping each visitor feel a little closer to “home.” Beyond Mason, she co-produces The Anchor Exchange, PCACAC’s podcast spotlighting the untold stories of admissions professionals and challenging the field to grow in empathy and impact.

Jessica Hardy

Former Assistant Director of Admissions at Rice University

Jessica’s higher education career spans nearly two decades, with ten years dedicated to her work as a college counseling professional. Jessica’s students have been admitted to a variety of colleges and universities, including Harvard, Yale, Dartmouth, Washington University - St. Louis, USC, Wake Forest, George Washington, Carnegie Mellon, the US Naval Academy, Howard, Morehouse, Georgia Tech, Texas A&M, TCU, Parsons School of Design at The New School, and University of San Diego. She has served as Director of College Counseling at St. George’s Independent School, and further supplemented her advising experience with successful stints on the admissions side at Knox College, Sewanee, and Rice University (where she also managed international recruitment).