African American students in Georgia have always looked forward to attending a historically black college or university in the University System of Georgia. Many have enrolled as first-generation college students or followed a path set by their parents. However, due to a recent phenomenon in higher education in the State, this may no longer be the case.
Historically black State institutions of higher learning in Georgia may be forced to combine with predominantly white public colleges and universities to streamline services if the Board of Regents has its way. It could spell the end of one endangered HBCU's motto of "education on a personal level."
Only Albany State University, one of three State-supported HBCUs in Georgia, has seen its mission altered thus far. It recently merged with Darton State College in 2015, a predominantly white institution located on the city's Westside, with ASU serving as its flagship campus. With expanded course offerings in nursing, biology, and education, it is a force to be reckoned with in Southwest Georgia. The two campuses recently combined their athletic teams to serve a student body of nearly 8,000 men and women. It should translate into jobs in an economically strapped area.
Savannah State University, the second of Georgia's three State-funded HBCUs, is being considered for a merger with Armstrong State, a public, predominantly white university also in Savannah. With the consolidation of similar institutions already finalized by the Board of Regents, these schools may not escape their fate despite being located on Georgia's booming coast. However, unlike Albany and other places where downsizing has become the new normal on the college level, Savannah boasts old money capable of fighting such a move all the way to the State capital. If not, it could lead to an educational powerhouse in the State's oldest city, with better opportunities for those in the area.
Lastly, historically black Fort Valley State University, the state's only other public HBCU, may be spared for obvious reasons. There is no compatible institution within proximity that hasn't already lost its independence, such as Macon State College or Middle Georgia State College in nearby Cochran. In addition, African Americans in Georgia will insist that at least one state-sponsored HBCU remain intact to welcome students from challenging backgrounds.
The reaction around the state has been mostly positive, which could bolster post-secondary education in the state.
Update: Armstrong State University in Savannah recently merged with Georgia Southern University, fifty miles away, leaving Savannah State University intact. The Board of Regents has also decided to merge nearby East Georgia State College in Swainsboro with Georgia Southern University in Statesboro for economic reasons.
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