Howard University PhD candidate Howard Prioleau has become the first student from a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) selected for the prestigious Google PhD Fellowship. Prioleau’s current research focuses on using Natural Language Processing (NLP) to address real-world challenges, particularly in underserved areas. A Passion Ignited Early Prioleau’s interest in technology dates back to childhood, inspired by early encounters with Google’s innovations, according to a press release. A defining moment came when he accidentally installed ransomware on his family’s computer—a mistake that led to his ban from the device.
Howard University has announced a record-breaking 36,000 applications for the 2024-2025 academic year, marking an unprecedented surge in interest, as first reported by Bloomberg. This trend mirrors a broader revival for historically Black colleges and universities, with more students seeking out schools that affirm their cultural identity while offering academic rigor. HBCUs See a Renaissance HBCUs are experiencing a significant surge in applications and enrollments after years of decline that mirrored national trends. Schools like Spelman College, Morehouse College, and Morgan State University reporting record numbers of applicants. Spelman, for
Three former Duolingo executives have secured $13 million in seed funding to launch a startup aimed at making college more accessible, as first reported by TechCrunch. The funding round, led by Khosla Ventures, also saw participation from Karman Ventures, Latitud Ventures, Lightspeed Ventures, and several angel investors. The funds will be directed toward hiring and product development for the initiative, which remains in stealth mode. A Mission Rooted in Personal Experience The team, which includes Jorge Mazal (CEO), Daniel Falabella (Chief Product Officer), and Gina Gotthilf (Chief Marketing Officer), is
Mielle Organics, a leader in textured hair care, has announced its first-ever partnership with an HBCU athletic program, which includes a WNBA-led mentorship program for student athletes. Mielle partners with Hampton University Mielle Organics has pledged $300,000 to Hampton University’s women’s basketball. The multi-year partnership includes a $200,000 donation to Hampton Athletics and a $100,000 endowed scholarship through Mielle Cares, the company’s philanthropic arm. Additionally, Mielle is introducing a WNBA-led mentorship program, providing Hampton athletes with professional guidance both on and off the court. Investing in the Future of HBCU
North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University (NC A&T) is making history as the first university in North Carolina to offer a standalone undergraduate degree in artificial intelligence (AI). Approved by the UNC System Board of Governors, this Bachelor of Science program will be available at the nation’s largest historically Black university and the leading producer of Black engineering graduates, starting in fall 2025. Meeting Workforce Demands NC A&T’s program aims to meet the demand of increasing AI use by equipping students with expertise in advanced AI systems and applied
November is Native American Heritage Month, a time to celebrate the rich traditions, cultures, and contributions of Native American communities across the United States. In tech, Native Americans are making groundbreaking strides, breaking barriers, and inspiring future generations. Here we shine a spotlight on five trailblazers who are redefining success. Aaron Yazzie: Developing Tools for Mars Exploration As a mechanical engineer at NASA’s Jet Propulsion Laboratory, Aaron Yazzie, a Diné (Navajo) Nation member, designs critical systems for space missions. His work on the Mars Perseverance Rover, particularly the drill bits
Joanna Smith-Griffin, founder of the education-focused AI startup AllHere Education, has been charged with fraud and identity theft after allegedly misrepresenting her company’s financial health and customer base. Smith-Griffin, 33, reportedly secured nearly $10 million in investments by inflating revenue figures and claiming non-existent contracts with major school districts, including New York City Public Schools. Misrepresentation and Personal Gain Launched in 2016, AllHere Education aimed to combat absenteeism in schools using an AI chatbot named “Ed.” By 2021, Smith-Griffin asserted that her technology was adopted by eight major districts. However,
The Shawn Carter Foundation, in partnership with Toyota Motor North America, has introduced a financial education program designed to support students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). Called Champions for Financial Legacy (CFFL), the initiative aims to equip students and their surrounding communities with essential financial skills. Bridging Knowledge Gaps to Build Wealth CFFL, developed in collaboration with the Wharton School’s Coalition for Equity and Opportunity, is based on an existing curriculum by Dr. Keith Weigelt – the Marks-Darivoff Family Professor of Strategy at The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania.
The Southern Black Girls and Women’s Consortium (Southern Black Girls) has launched the Dream Investment Program to empower Black girls and women entrepreneurs across the South. The Dream Investment Program This initiative will support 25 current and aspiring business owners with financial investments, training, and mentorship, in partnership with Kindred Futures and supported by a grant from the Kellogg Foundation. “This program is a dream come true,” LaTosha Brown, Founder of Southern Black Girls, said in a press statement. “It’s about giving Black girls and women the resources and opportunities
PBS Kids is making strides in computer science education with its new series, Lyla In The Loop, which premiered recently. This animated show follows the adventures of Lyla, a 7-year-old Black girl who, with her friends and family, uses critical thinking and problem-solving skills to navigate everyday challenges. Encouraging Problem-Solving Through Interactive Storytelling One of the unique elements of Lyla In The Loop is its upcoming interactive episodes. These episodes will allow Lyla to break the fourth wall, directly engaging with the young viewers. Using pre-written responses powered by non-generative
