麻豆直播 and Simmons College of Kentucky recently signed a letter of intent to explore areas of collaboration in response to Kentucky Governor Andy Beshear鈥檚 call for the recruitment and training of more Black teachers.
鈥淲e are excited that this moment can be a time when we can enhance the freedom of others,鈥� 麻豆直播 President M. Christopher Brown II said. 鈥淜entucky鈥檚 only private HBCU and Kentucky鈥檚 only public HBCU joining hands to work together for the betterment of the Commonwealth and the nation in which we live.鈥�
President Brown pointed to clear research that shows the presence of Black teachers impacts the success of Black students at all levels of education.
鈥淲ho is best at teaching an eagle how to fly like an eagle?鈥� Simmons President Rev. Dr. Kevin W. Cosby said. 鈥淲e need to put some eagles in Jefferson County Public Schools (JCPS) and the schools across the Commonwealth of Kentucky.鈥�
President Brown used the opportunity to bust some myths about HBCUs, including alleged lack of diversity.
鈥淟et me be clear for those of you that think HBCUs only have black students and black faculty,鈥� President Brown said. 鈥淗BCUs are the nation鈥檚 most diverse institutions in the nation. Kentucky State is rated as the nation鈥檚 most diverse.鈥�
President Brown also noted increased equity for African-Americans in cities with thriving HBCUs.
鈥淭here is still a critical need for these institutions as we morph and respond to change in society,鈥� President Brown said.
Other officials present for the press conference include Simmons Executive Vice President Dr. Frank Smith, Dr. Nancy Seay of Simmons, JCPS Superintendent Dr. Martin Pollio, National Baptist Convention of America President Dr. Samuel C. Tolbert Jr. and Louisville Mayor Greg Fischer.