Former President Barack Obama Will Deliver Virtual Commencement Speeches, One for HBCU Grads

It began with a simple request on social media from graduating high school senior Lincoln Debenham, asking former president Barack Obama to deliver a national commencement speech to the class of 2020. The tweet touched off a twitter frenzy, and weeks later, the still popular 44^th President has agreed to serve as the virtual Commencement speaker for the millions of graduates denied the traditional pomp and circumstance due to the coronavirus.

On his Twitter page, President Obama wrote, “I’ve always loved joining commencements – the culmination of years of hard work and sacrifice. Even is we can’t get together in person this year, Michelle and I are excited to celebrate the nationwide Class of 2020 and recognize this milestone with you and your loved ones.”

Mr. Obama will deliver two virtual graduation speeches on May 16^th. The first one is called ‘Show Me Your Walk’ for the graduating Seniors at Historically Black Colleges and Universities. The second speech is for high school graduates. And, on June 6, the former President will speak to all graduates.

Jamari Rose, a graduating senior from the University of Arkansas at Pine Bluff which is a HBCU, is thrilled by the prospect of hearing Mr. Obama’s words of inspiration especially during a time when uncertainty about her future is distracting from the long-awaited celebration.

“Being a first-generation college student, COVID-19 has deeply affected a major milestone in my life,” Rose commented. “I am honored to be recognized by President Obama for my accomplishments.”

HBCUs like other universities have been hard hit by the coronavirus as instruction has been moved online and students forced to leave campus. Universities are being sued by students for room and board refunds and instructional methods. And, there is still some question about the status of fall instruction.

Funding for HBCUs

Education Secretary Betsy DeVos announced last week that nearly $1.4 billion in additional funding will be directed to Minority Serving Institutions, including HBCUs.

“Each institution is unique and is an important part of this country’s educational fabric,” DeVos said in a statement.

According to the statement, “Institutions may use this funding to cover the cost of technology associated with a transition to distance education, grants to cover the costs of attendance for eligible students, and faculty and staff trainings. Additionally, funds may be used to cover operational costs, such as lost revenue, reimbursements for prior expenses, and payroll.”

During a virtual town hall last month hosted by the National Conference of Black Political Scientists and Health Leads USA, Dr. Joseph Silver, former President of Alabama State University, outlined some of the challenges he thinks HBCUs will experience due to the pandemic.

“They are going to be severe budget cuts in the fall,” Silver said. “The cash flow at institutions is being challenged. And, this pandemic has hurt financials. Those institutions that were on the margins will have severe issues.”

Conversations about the need for HBCUs which have educated generations of African Americans are not new and often include questions about their financial viability. The economic challenges wrought by the coronavirus pandemic may create an untenable reality for some.

Silver added, “Maybe it’s time to think about an articulation of partnerships…some should merge or close. I think the real barometer will be and should be the impact this situation has on students and students learning outcomes.”

The impact of the pandemic during the summer months will help determine the direction of higher education, financially and logistically. But for now, the young men and women who have completed their undergraduate careers and those finishing high school will receive a special salute from one of the world’s most beloved leaders. And, it all began with hope which the former President inspired for two terms in the White House and continues to offer.