A national research report examining the relationship between presidential and chancellor leadership, institutional resilience, and the pursuit of Carnegie R1 and R2 research classification at Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Drawing on a national survey and convening of HBCU leaders, administrators, alumni, and partners, this report presents evidence-based findings and forward-looking recommendations designed to strengthen HBCU governance, sustain leadership continuity, and accelerate the path toward research preeminence.
What the Data Reveal: Governance, Leadership, and the Foundations of HBCU Research Advancement
HBCUs have demonstrated, generation after generation, that they are capable of extraordinary institutional achievement under challenging conditions. What this research makes clear is that the conditions enabling that achievement are not accidental; they are knowable, observable, and replicable. Drawing on national survey data and insights from a convening of HBCU presidents, chancellors, administrators, alumni, and partners, this section presents findings on the governance structures, leadership practices, and institutional investments most strongly associated with sustained research capacity growth and Carnegie classification advancement. The data are unambiguous: institutions that invest in strong governance, strategic leadership continuity, and aligned stakeholder relationships build the kind of institutional resilience that carries them forward through any challenge they face.
From Evidence to Action: What It Takes for HBCUs to Reach R1 and R2
Howard University's historic achievement of R1 status, Morgan State's climb toward its 2030 goal, and the launch of the Association of HBCU Research Institutions signal that HBCU research preeminence is not aspirational it is already underway. The report findings are translated into six actionable recommendations for HBCU leaders, governing boards, federal agencies, and philanthropic partners committed to ensuring that more institutions follow this path and sustain the gains they achieve.