20 HBCU graduates that have shaped America [slideshow]

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are dedicated to empowering students and alumni with the tools to drive significant civic and cultural change. Through their intentional focus on leadership, advocacy, and excellence, HBCU graduates have made remarkable strides in political, legal, cultural, and artistic fields. These institutions foster an environment where students thrive and emerge as trailblazers. By nurturing talent and commitment, HBCUs continue to shape leaders who make profound contributions to American democracy. Click through the slideshow below to learn about twenty inspirational graduates.

Kamala Harris

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Kamala Harris, Howard University (1986): Kamala Harris is the first woman vice president in U.S. history and the Democratic nominee in the 2024 presidential election. She has also served as U.S. Senator, attorney general of California, and district attorney. During her time at Howard University, she interned as a mailroom clerk for California Senator Alan Cranston, chaired the economic society, led the debate team, and was a member of Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc.—the first sorority dedicated to the advancement of Black women and girls. [Image by The White House via Wikimedia Commons. Public domain]

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