HBCU Week NOW: A Public Media Partnership is a dynamic initiative dedicated to honoring the rich legacy and cultural impact of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) through compelling television and digital media. Spearheaded by Maryland Public Television (MPT), this platform serves as a premier destination for in-depth coverage of the nation’s 103 HBCUs, showcasing the achievements, stories, and contributions of students, alumni, faculty, and staff.

The initiative’s name reflects its core mission: why wait for the nationally recognized HBCU Week each September when you can access comprehensive, real-time HBCU-focused content NOW? Available on YouTube, HBCU Week NOW delivers an extensive library of on-demand programming, offering audiences immediate access to history, and inspiring narratives that shape the HBCU experience.

Objectives

• Educate all Americans about the unique legacy of HBCUs
• Build lasting relationships between local public television stations and HBCUs
• Establish a pipeline of young storytellers for public media sourced from HBCU media, communications, and other academic programs
• Foster stronger connections between HBCUs and the general communities in their areas, with local PBS stations positioned as conveners and relationship builders

“The Corporation for Public Broadcasting (CPB)’s support for expanding HBCU Week NOW is an investment in the future of our students, empowering communities and ensuring that the rich history and legacy of these colleges and universities continue to inspire and uplift generations to come.” - Pat Harrison, CEO, CPB

“We applaud MPT’s unwavering dedication to highlighting our HBCUs each year with its substantive programming for HBCU Week. This unique media event wholly celebrates our Black colleges’ and universities’ historical importance and modern relevance.” - Dr. David Wilson, President, Morgan State University