This month the Political Science Department is honored to have one of their very own students, Brooke Battiste, selected as an HBCU All-Star from the White House Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
The White House Inititative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities works towards promoting academic excellence and growth in HBCUs and their students nationwide. This award will recognize outstanding HBCU students that exemplify leadership, civic duty, and dedication to academics.
All applicants are current undergraduates attending HBCUs. The application process started in late December of 2013 and the winners were selected at the end of January.
Her advisor Dr. Rose Harris informed Battiste about the opportunity. Upon hearing about the award, Battiste began the application process by writing an essay on the benefits one gains from attending an HBCU. To apply, she had to submit this short essay, a letter of recommendation, and a transcript.
Battiste graciously accepts this esteemed award.
“I am honored to receive such an auspicious award and I hope that I can help to restore Grambling and other HBCUS to their former grandeur.”
Out of 62 HBCUs across America, there were 445 applicants. Battiste is one of the 75 All-Stars chosen to serve as an ambassador for the White House Initiative, and will continue to promote academic achievement by networking with the Initative. At the end of the year, the All-Stars will have the opportunity to attend a conference in which they will be officially labeled as student ambassadors.
“Engaging with the next generation of leaders who will graduate from HBCUs and go on to make meaningful contributions to society is crucial to the success of our community, our country and our global competitiveness,” said George Cooper, executive director of the WHIHBCUs.
Along with receiving the award, the All-Stars will have responsibilities to attend different events such as webinars and conferences, to promote HBCUs. Battiste along with her fellow All-Stars, will also be given the opportunity to interact with others scholars and showcase their skills and talents across the HBCU community.
The 75 HBCU All-Stars will receive more information in the coming months as they undergo their roles as ambassadors of the White House Innitiative.