HBCU Sisterhood

The HBCU Sisterhood: Testimonies of Triumph and Transformation is a powerful, first-of-its-kind anthology that pulls back the curtain on one of the most extraordinary leadership legacies in American history. For the first time, eight pioneering Black women presidents—Dr. Sebetha Jenkins, Dr. Dianne Boardley Suber, Dr. Trudie Kibbe Reed, Dr. Brenda Allen, Dr. Cynthia Jackson-Hammond, Dr. Cheryl Davenport Dozier, Dr. Colette Pierce Burnette, and Dr. Cynthia Warrick—share their stories in their own words. These are the voices that sustained, protected, and transformed America’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities through some of the most challenging eras of modern higher education.

Their testimonies are breathtakingly honest and profoundly insightful. These women describe the realities of navigating financial crises, accreditation pressures, political scrutiny, cultural resistance, gender bias, and the relentless expectations placed on Black women leaders. Through every challenge, they demonstrate bravery, integrity, excellence, resilience, and grace. Their reflections offer powerful wisdom for aspiring leaders and provide a historic lens into the inner workings of HBCUs, reminding readers that leadership at these institutions is both a calling and a transformative act of service.

More than a book, The HBCU Sisterhood stands as a living archive of Black women’s leadership and a tribute to the enduring strength of HBCUs. This volume includes a historical documentation of every HBCU founded in the United States and the women who have served as sister presidents across the sector. A companion workbook extends the experience, inviting readers to reflect, engage, and apply the leadership insights shared within these pages. This collection is essential reading for anyone who cares about education, equity, and the powerful legacy of Black women leading with vision and purpose.

Roslyn Clark Artis is a trailblazing leader and the first woman to serve as President of both Benedict College and Florida Memorial University.

Allia L. Carter is the 10th Dean of Bowling Green State University’s Firelands Campus, bringing over 30 years of leadership experience in higher education.