Mecca Takes the Crown: Howard University Tops Forbes’ List as Best HBCU – Essence

Howard University makes history once more, earning the title of top historically black college and university (HBCU) prestigious list of the best American universities for 2024.

This will not be the first time Howard has gained national attention for its excellence in scholarship, culture and leadership. Known as the “Mecca,” Howard was a cornerstone of scientific achievement and black intellectualism since its foundation in 1867Now, being named a top HBCU on the list further solidifies its position as a pacesetter in higher education. The university ranked 83rd on the list of ‘Best Colleges in America,’ outpacing greater than 500 institutions nationwide. Six HBCUs made the list, but Howard stood tall at the top.

For HBCUs, this rating is of great significance. Traditionally, rankings from publications like have been dominated by predominantly white institutions, and HBCUs have often received less visibility. Howard’s top spot on the HBCU list, together with its placement amongst the top 100 schools overall, reflects a growing recognition of the critical role HBCUs play in educating black students and cultivating future leaders.

Howard University has a wealthy heritage that goes far beyond its rankings. From producing iconic figures like Vice President Kamala Harris, Supreme Court Justice Thurgood Marshall, and civil rights activist Stokely Carmichael, the university’s alumni list reads like a who’s who of black excellence. And it’s not nearly the past—Howard continues to pave the way for future generations. The school stays a premier destination for college kids searching for an education rooted in black culture, empowerment, and innovation, myself included.

As a proud graduate of Howard University School of Law, this distinction feels especially meaningful to me. It is a major achievement not just for the university but for the entire HBCU community, as it signals a growing national recognition of the excellence and influence of those institutions. I can personally attest to the transformative experience of attending HU—Howard instills a way of pride, history, and community that extends beyond the classroom.

Howard’s recognition is greater than just prestige — it’s an indication that HBCUs are finally being seen as the academic and social powerhouses they’re. HBCUs are sometimes praised for his or her ability to foster black excellence, educating leaders in fields as diverse as politics, science, entertainment and law.

In fact, HBCUs as an entire proceed to be key drivers of economic growth, community development, and cultural progress. According to study conducted by UNCFHBCUs enroll just 10 percent of black students, but graduate with nearly 20 percent of black students.

This disparity speaks volumes about the quality of education these institutions offer, and Howard’s role as a pacesetter amongst them further underscores the immense value of HBCUs in shaping the future. Being amongst the top HBCUs is just the starting. As Howard continues to speculate in its students, faculty, and facilities, it is obvious that the university is poised for even greater achievements. Under the leadership of Dr. Wayne A. I. Frederick, Howard has expanded its academic offerings, increased research funding, and developed programs that meet the needs of today’s global workforce.