The National HBCU Leadership Summit is a leadership development and advocacy training program that empowers LGBTQ HBCU students to act as change-agents on their campuses and in their communities while leading resourcefully through the intersections of race, gender identity, sexual orientation, religion, and class. 

The National Leadership Summit is the HBCU Program’s key convening for LGBTQ+ HBCU students. It fosters an environment where students can be affirmed in all their identities, specifically the intersection of being Black and LGBTQ+. The summit is a transformative experience for students and helps build a collective of HBCU LGBTQ+ student activists dedicated to mobilizing their campuses and communities toward equity, inclusion, and justice.

The deadline to apply is Friday, December 6, 2024


2025 HBCU Summit Focus

  • Caring for Community – mental health, public health priorities, and health equity for Black and LGBTQ+ communities
  • Shifting the Culture – effective communication, championing diversity, equity and inclusion, and mobilizing communities for change
  • Unlocking Your Potential – storytelling, personal branding, and professional development

Eligibility

  • The deadline to apply is Friday, December 6, 2024.
  • Requirement: Rising undergraduate sophomores, juniors, and seniors who identify as LGBTQ and are currently enrolled at an HBCU are eligible to apply.
  • Each candidate may only submit one application.
  • Eligible candidates must provide their resume with a current GPA, and a high-resolution headshot. 
  • Must be a change agent who seeks to improve the lives of LGBTQ folks.
  • Must be willing to complete a capstone project.
  • For selected candidates, the HRC HBCU program will cover travel expenses to/from Washington, D.C., lodging accommodations, and meals during the summit.

Sharing our Stories

Leading the Way: Two HBCU Student Leaders Share their Stories

Hear from PrEP Ambassadors Erica and Laten, who recount their accomplishments during the National HBCU Leadership Summit.

Learn Moreabout Leading the Way: Two HBCU Student Leaders Share their Stories

HBCU #OutLoudDay

HRC Foundation’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Program established HBCU OUTLOUD Day, a day for HBCU students, administrators, faculty, and staff to reaffirm their commitment to LGBTQ+ equality.

Learn More
The Human Rights Campaign reports on news, events and resources of the Human Rights Campaign Foundation that are of interest to the general public and further our common mission to support the LGBTQ+ community.

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