Measuring Diversity at a Historically Black College of Dentistry

Setting The Stage

There is a perception among many that Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are culturally and racially monolithic. Although it is true that the majority of students at HBCUs are indeed African American, there is also great ethnic diversity at many of these institutions. The dilemma for the HBCU is to provide a well-rounded educational experience that prepares its graduates for global leadership, while remaining true to the purpose for which the university was established. The need to have far-reaching discussion and broad socialization as part of the university environment is integral to the development of the intellectual and ethical character of all graduates. Most HBCUs are probably more diverse than one might think. What was needed were the tools to make the assessment. The momentum for The Historically Black College of Dentistry to determine its diversity status occurred when a novel funding stream presented with the condition that the College become more diverse to receive the money. The Directorate of Assessments at The Historically Black College of Dentistry sought to first characterize the college’s level of student body diversity and then to recommend minimal target levels comparable to those at peer majority institutions.