Touring Colleges Across the Country
Why HBCU Tours Matter
Annual Historically Black College and University (HBCU) Tours are more than campus visits—they are transformational experiences. For many of the students we serve, setting foot on a college campus is a first, and higher education can feel like an unattainable goal. BWF Tours help bridge that gap by providing:
- A Pathway to Higher Education: Students are introduced to a wide range of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), each offering unique academic programs, scholarships, and cultural experiences. This exposure allows them to envision themselves in a college environment and motivates them to take the necessary steps toward enrollment.
- Opportunities for On-the-Spot Admissions: During the tour, students meet with university admissions officers, and many receive acceptance letters and scholarships on the spot. In 2024, 100% of high school seniors on the tour received on-the-spot admissions offers, and two students secured scholarships immediately.
- Mentorship and Guidance: Our students are accompanied by mentors, fraternity members, and educators who provide insight, encouragement, and real-world perspectives on the college experience. These role models help students navigate the transition from high school to college, offering invaluable support and networking opportunities.
- An Eye-Opening Cultural Experience: The tours emphasize the value and significance of HBCUs, highlighting their rich history, academic excellence, and strong sense of community. For many students, this is their first introduction to the vibrant and empowering culture of historically Black institutions.
Stepping Into a Promising Future
Our Annual HBCU College Tour is a three-day event held twice a year, once in the spring and once in the fall. Each trip is thoughtfully designed to coincide with open house events at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), providing students with the best opportunities to access admissions resources, explore campus life, and discover scholarship options.
For over a decade, the Blue and White Foundation has been dedicated to empowering young people by providing them with the knowledge, exposure, and encouragement to pursue higher education. Our Annual HBCU College Tour is a signature initiative aimed at introducing students from the Chicago area to Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)—institutions that have produced some of the nation’s most accomplished leaders, professionals, and changemakers.
Through this program, students gain firsthand experience of HBCU life by engaging with current students, faculty, and admissions officers. They learn about academic programs, financial aid options, campus culture, and career pathways. For many participants, this tour is their first opportunity to travel outside of Chicago, opening doors to new possibilities and aspirations.s.
How the Program Works
- Visits to Eight HBCU Campuses: Each tour includes visits to eight institutions across three states, allowing students to gain a comprehensive understanding of the HBCU landscape.
- Guided Campus Tours: Students will have the chance to explore dormitories, classrooms, libraries, and student centers while interacting with current students and faculty members.
- Financial Aid and Admissions Workshops: Participants will receive valuable information about tuition, scholarships, and grants to help them understand how to make college financially attainable.
- Overnight Accommodations and Meals Provided: Students will stay in hotels or dorms, with all meals covered for the duration of the trip.
- Chaperoned and Supervised Travel: Students will be accompanied by vetted fraternity members, mentors, and their spouses, ensuring a safe and structured environment. Due to liability and insurance considerations, parent participation is limited; however, all volunteers will undergo a screening process.