Statement from NASH Executive Director Rebecca Martin on Recent HBCU Bomb Threats

For Immediate Release: Thursday, February 3, 2022

Washington, D.C. – “Historically Black colleges and universities are some of the most vivid and tangible reflections on our nation’s history. These campuses were founded to provide a safe haven for all to reap the benefits of higher education regardless of the color of their skin. Unfortunately, in recent days we have witnessed hateful attempts to shake the core of these institutions. Yet they have proven unsuccessful. 

“HBCUs have emerged as beacons of inspiration as all of American higher education strives to right decades of wrong by creating learning environments built on equity, diversity, and inclusion. Many of these institutions are integral parts of our systems. As we have looked to our HBCU colleagues for guidance, today and every day we stand in unapologetic solidarity alongside them as we weather this latest storm. 

“As system leaders, we know all too well the importance of collaboration and strength in numbers. The National Association of System Heads beseeches its members to embrace systemness – the idea that, together, we can collectively achieve more than the sum of our parts. 

“In light of these threats, we are asking our member systems, which educate more than 75 percent of America’s 4-year public college students – to make efforts to educate their campus communities on the far-reaching implications of these threats, which are undoubtedly racism in action. HBCUs are and will always remain a part of the fabric of our nationwide ‘system’ of learning, and we will do all that we can to support our partners during this time.”

About the National Association of System Heads
Founded in 1979, the National Association of System Heads (NASH) represents chief executives of the 52 public higher education systems in the United States. Member institutions work collaboratively to advance innovation and change in public systems of colleges and universities. To learn more about NASH and its national initiative, the Power of Systems, visit www.nashonline.org.