Celebrating Leadership and Legacy at the 15th Annual HBCU Philanthropy Symposium

The 15th annual HBCU Philanthropy Symposium, hosted by Delaware State University, brought together leaders from across the HBCU landscape to reflect, strategize, and celebrate the enduring impact of historically Black colleges and universities. With representatives from 26 corporations, 23 nonprofit organizations, and more than half of the nation’s 107 HBCUs in attendance, the event served as a powerful reminder of the strength and solidarity within the HBCU community.

This year’s theme, “Standing Firm on the HBCU Legacy,” underscored the critical role that HBCUs have played and continue to play in American higher education. These institutions were born out of resistance, established by communities that believed in the transformative power of education even when laws and policies denied them access.

A highlight of the symposium was the presentation of the Dr. Alma S. Adams HBCU Leadership Award to Dr. Paulette R. Dillard, President and CEO of Shaw University. The award was presented by Congresswoman Alma S. Adams of North Carolina’s 12th Congressional District, who also serves as the Founder and Co-Chair of the Bipartisan, Bicameral HBCU Caucus. The honor recognizes visionary leadership and an unwavering commitment to advancing the mission of HBCUs.

This past weekend, the 15th annual HBCU Philanthropy Symposium, hosted by Delaware State University, brought together leaders from across the nation’s historically Black colleges and universities to reflect, strategize and celebrate the impact of HBCUs. Representatives from 26 corporations, 23 nonprofit organizations and more than half of the country’s 107 HBCUs attended the event, highlighting the strength and solidarity within the HBCU community.

The theme, “Standing Firm on the HBCU Legacy,” emphasized the role these institutions have played and continue to play in American higher education. Founded in the face of systemic barriers, HBCUs were created out of resilience and a belief in the power of education.

A highlight of the symposium was the presentation of the Dr. Alma S. Adams HBCU Leadership Award to Dr. Paulette R. Dillard, president and CEO of Shaw University. The award was presented by Congresswoman Alma S. Adams of North Carolina’s 12th Congressional District, who also serves as founder and co-chair of the bipartisan, bicameral HBCU Caucus. The award recognizes visionary leadership and dedication to advancing the mission of HBCUs.

Dillard is a three-time HBCU graduate and one of the few Black women to hold executive leadership roles in clinical diagnostics before moving to higher education. Since becoming president of Shaw University, she has strengthened the university’s impact locally and nationally.

Adams, a two-time HBCU graduate and a 40-year professor at Bennett College, called Dillard a trailblazer and advocate for students, faculty and the HBCU community.

“Dillard’s legacy of leadership is not only shaping Shaw University; it is inspiring the entire HBCU ecosystem,” Adams said. “I’m proud to call her a colleague and a friend.”

As Shaw University continues to build on its legacy, it does so with the leadership of Dillard — a leader worthy of this recognition.