In a significant step toward expanding educational opportunities, Washtenaw Community College (WCC) has proudly announced its latest partnership with Central State University (CSU), Ohio, as part of its HBCU Pathway program. This partnership was formalized during WCC's second annual HBCU Day, a dynamic event that drew over 400 high school students from various schools in the county to explore the benefits of transferring to a Historically Black College or University.

With the inclusion of Central State University, WCC now collaborates with seven distinguished HBCUs across the nation, providing transfer students with perks such as guaranteed admission, in-state tuition rates, priority housing, seamless credit transfers, and scholarship opportunities. The current lineup of WCC’s HBCU partners includes notable institutions like Alabama A&M, Alabama State University, Tuskegee University, Jackson State University, Mississippi Valley State University, and Southern University - New Orleans.

The signing ceremony featured WCC President Dr. Rose B. Bellanca and Dr. Arletha McSwain, Vice Provost of Access & Enrollment Management from CSU, representing CSU's Interim President, Dr. Alex Johnson. "This partnership with Central State paves the way for students to achieve their dreams of attending one of our country's premier HBCUs and to make their mark in the world," Dr. Bellanca expressed during the event.

Dr. McSwain added, "We are thrilled to solidify this HBCU Pathway partnership. Our collaboration with Washtenaw’s students has been ongoing, and we eagerly anticipate this agreement streamlining the transfer process, facilitating more students in achieving their educational aspirations at Central State.”

Central State University, situated in Wilberforce, Ohio, holds the distinction of being Ohio’s only public HBCU. It has a rich legacy that began in 1887, initially connected to Wilberforce University, the nation’s oldest private HBCU. Known for its comprehensive educational offerings, Central State has evolved to become a leader in the arts, humanities, social sciences, and teacher education, while also embracing diversity in STEM fields.

The HBCU Day event provided a platform for representatives from all WCC’s HBCU partner institutions to engage directly with potential students about the benefits of their programs. The day was filled with educational presentations, spirited discussions, and culminated in a celebratory performance by the Central State University Marching Band and a “Divine Nine Fraternity & Sorority Stroll Off.”

This initiative not only marks a significant milestone in WCC’s commitment to fostering educational diversity and accessibility but also highlights the supportive role of community events in enhancing student engagement and success. The event, sponsored by a grant from Washtenaw County, signifies a growing acknowledgment and celebration of the pivotal role HBCUs play in higher education.

Washtenaw Community College continues to demonstrate its dedication to student success and diversity through such enriching partnerships and events, ensuring that the pathway to higher education is both inclusive and empowering.

For more info, visit Washtenaw Community College