February 3rd 2024.
San Francisco Mayor London Breed is reaching out to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) to utilize the city's vacant office spaces and establish satellite campuses. This initiative aims to bridge the gap on the West Coast, where there are currently no HBCUs for students to attend. During an event commemorating Black History Month, Mayor Breed shared her vision for this partnership, highlighting the potential for long-term opportunities.
The city's Human Rights Commission has been working on this plan, and representatives from several HBCUs, including Howard University, Charles R. Drew University, and Morehouse College, have already been contacted. The first "Black 2 San Francisco" event was recently held at the Taube Atrium Theater, with numerous HBCUs in attendance as the city announced its plans for an HBCU incubator over the summer.
Mayor Breed pointed out that all HBCUs are located in the South and East Coast, leaving a void on the West Coast. She emphasized the importance of bringing the HBCU experience to San Francisco and providing better educational opportunities for Black youth. Additionally, this partnership could open doors for HBCU students to enter the technology field, which has a strong presence in San Francisco and Silicon Valley.
The plan is for 28 HBCU students to live in housing provided by the University of San Francisco, while San Francisco State University will offer classrooms for their use. The initiative also includes guest instructors and paid internships in various fields. This not only benefits the HBCU students but also contributes to the city's revitalization.
Mayor Breed believes that this initiative is crucial for the future of San Francisco. She stated, "In San Francisco, we are committed to building partnerships that strengthen our leadership as a center of education, innovation, and opportunity." She also thanked the private sector supporters and local universities for their involvement and dedication to San Francisco's future.
Dr. Sheryl Davis, the Executive Director of the San Francisco Human Rights Commission, expressed her gratitude and excitement for this initiative, emphasizing the hard work and planning that has gone into it. She also noted that this effort aligns with the Dream Keeper Initiative and recommendations from the Reparations Advisory committee.
This partnership between San Francisco and HBCUs has been in the works for years and is finally coming to fruition. It is a historic achievement that will benefit both the city and the HBCUs involved.
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