Modesto City Schools Students reflect on unforgettable HBCU Tour

CVV News l April 10, 2024

From March 16th to 22nd, 2024, students from Modesto City Schools embarked on a transformative college journey that left a lasting impact on the 40 participants. This enriching experience was made possible by the district’s support and coordinated by United College Action Network, Inc.(U-CAN), a registered 501(c)(3) nonprofit organization in Sacramento. U-CAN is dedicated to offering leadership services and college preparation guidance to students aiming to enroll in four-year postsecondary institutions with a particular emphasis on facilitating admissions to the more than 100 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in the nation. Alongside Fallon Ferris, Equity and Intervention Specialist with Modesto City Schools, the trip was overseen by chaperones, including board President John Ervin III, several teachers, and U-CAN staff.

During the tour, students had the opportunity to explore esteemed institutions such as Winston-Salem State University, North Carolina A&T State University, North Carolina Central University, Shaw University, Hampton University, Virginia State University, Howard University, and Delta State University.

A highlight of the journey included a visit to the National Museum of African American Culture and History in Washington, D.C. The trip to our only national museum devoted exclusively to the documentation of African American life, history, and culture evoked a range of emotions among the students, including excitement, intrigue, appreciation, disappointment, and sadness. As a former African American Culture and History professor and counselor, I had the privilege of guiding students through processing their feelings.

The trip inspired many students, igniting a keen interest in the HBCUs they visited and fueling their intentions to apply. Thanks to the support of Modesto City Schools, the HBCU tour incurred no cost to students. Applicants underwent a rigorous selection process, which included writing two essays and engaging in community service. Out of 85 applicants, 40 students were carefully chosen by MCS staff after meticulous review of each submission. The district is very proud to offer this unforgettable experience to its students.