HBCUs need better marketing

Williams replies: The issue of students not pursuing physics in large numbers at HBCUs is a convolution of many factors, but it boils down to a lack of financial resources. There is a common misperception that the pool of African American students is dwindling. However, according to the 2004 Annual Status Report on Minorities in Higher Education, published by the American Council on Education, the college enrollment rate for African Americans had risen 56% over the 20-year period beginning in 1980. More African Americans are going to college these days; however, they’re not choosing to major in physics. It is not feasible for HBCU physics faculty and students to go into every high school to recruit, and guidance counselors often do not know about the myriad career paths that come with a physics degree. With more money invested, HBCU physics programs can offer more scholarships, attract high-quality faculty due to improved physical plant and science infrastructure, provide more professional development opportunities for existing faculty and staff, and produce more physics and science teachers for the secondary schools. With adequate and judiciously deployed resources, the situation can be totally changed in a few short years.