Two Neighboring HBCUs in Ohio Look to Find Ways to Share Services

Wilberforce University and Central State University in Ohio have announced that they are currently in discussion regarding a collaborative learning arrangement and shared services relationship. Wilberforce University, is a private historically Black educational institution with about 600 students. It is affiliated with the African Methodist Episcopal Church. Central State University, located across the street from Wilberforce, is a state-operated HBCU with enrollments of nearly 1,800 students.

Elfred Anthony Pinkard, president of Wilberforce University, stated that “Central State University and Wilberforce University have shared histories and distinct institutional cultures that inform the potential of success of this experience. Central State University and Wilberforce University students will continue to engage on their respective campuses but can look forward to shared and dynamic learning and student engagement experiences.”

The first area of cooperation will house some Wilberforce students on the Central State campus. The university has been housing students in a hotel after a pipe burst and damaged some student rooms in Henderson Hall. Other areas where the two HBCUs may cooperate are in academic offerings, food services, library services, and information technology resources.

Both universities have faced budgetary issues in recent years. A cooperative arrangement could help the bottom lines of both HBCUs.