December 1992
Winston-Salem State University
Winston-Salem, N.C.

A panel of nationally-known experts on higher education and, in particular, historically black institutions discusses the future of those institutions on Black Issues Forum: "Traditionally Black Colleges & Universities -- A National Treasure", airing Tuesday, Dec. 15,1992 at 9:00 pm on University of North Carolina Television.

According to Gloria Scott, President of Bennett College, historically black schools have been from the earliest days "the backbone of America," educating blacks to become part of the work force that has enable the nation to reach its current economic status as a world power. From humble beginnings, historically black colleges and universities have become multi-purpose institutions offering a variety of professional and graduate degrees.

With this strong historical foundation, black colleges and universities are now at a crossroad, facing many complicated issues as they try to stay at the forefront of African-Americans education. Finding the best path quickly is especially important, says Elias Blake Jr., President of the Benjamin E. Mays National Educational Resource Center at Howard University "because studies indicate that 28 percent of students attending college are either black Hispanic.

The panel discusses several courses of action. William Friday proposes expanding access to schools and emphasizing the development of human resources. Highlighting positive contributions will improve the visibility and public perception of traditionally black schools; says Prezell Robinson of St. Augustine's College. "The best piblic relations. an institution can have is its graduates." Echoes Southern University System President Dorothy Spikes, " Get to Know us!"

The moderator for "Black Issues Forum" is Valeria Lee, program Development Officer for Z. Smith Reynold Foundation. Dr. Paul F. Vandergrift, Jr., is the series Executive Producer and Jim Bramlett is the producer. University of North Carolina Television is the state's 100-station public television network operated by the University of North Carolina