San Diego, CA, February 10, 2026
The 9th Annual San Diego Black College Expo offers high school students the chance to connect with over 50 HBCUs and learn about educational opportunities and scholarships. This inclusive event takes place at the MLK Center at Bayview Baptist Church, promoting community engagement and student success.
Empowering Education: The 9th Annual San Diego Black College Expo
Connect with over 50 HBCUs on February 12, 2026
San Diego, CA – The upcoming 9th Annual San Diego Black College Expo promises to be a pivotal event for many high school students eager to pursue higher education. Scheduled for February 12, 2026, at the MLK Center at Bayview Baptist Church, this expo is a collaboration between the San Diego County Office of Education (SDCOE) and the National College Resources Foundation. It is a testament to how local organizations can create impactful opportunities for our youth, particularly in light of the ever-evolving educational landscape.
This event not only facilitates connections between students and representatives from more than 50 historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) but also local, regional, and military educational institutions. Supporting initiatives like this can foster civic innovation and enhance community engagement while minimizing bureaucratic hurdles that often impede student access to valuable resources.
Event Overview
During the expo, high school juniors and seniors will have the unique opportunity to engage directly with admissions officers, explore different academic programs, and learn about scholarship opportunities available to them. Many HBCUs at the event offer on-the-spot acceptances, giving students a tangible path to their educational ambitions. Scholarships are also awarded throughout the day, creating immediate benefits for those who participate.
Scholarship Opportunities
To qualify for scholarships at the event, students must submit a 500-word essay addressing the question, “Why is a college education important to me?” The deadline for these essays is February 2, ensuring ample time for students to reflect on their academic goals and personal narratives before the event.
Seminars for Student Success
Beyond college admissions, the expo features various seminars designed to aid in the transition from high school to college life. Topics will include understanding financial aid, the unique advantages of attending an HBCU, and critical tips for navigating the college application process. This educational component underscores the event’s commitment to equipping students with the knowledge needed to succeed.
Inclusivity and Community Engagement
A noteworthy aspect of the San Diego Black College Expo is its inclusivity. While the event focuses on underrepresented students, it welcomes participants of all racial and ethnic backgrounds. By fostering an environment where diverse students can connect with educational opportunities, the expo illustrates the power of community collaboration and private partnerships in furthering educational equity.
Looking Back and Moving Forward
Established over two decades ago, the Black College Expo has significantly impacted underrepresented students, helping over 500,000 individuals secure admissions to various colleges and acquire more than $1 billion in scholarships and grants. This history of success highlights the effectiveness of local initiatives in enhancing access to education, ultimately fostering personal initiative and achievement.
Conclusion
The San Diego Black College Expo stands as a beacon of opportunity, helping students to envision and realize their educational aspirations. By eliminating barriers and creating platforms for engagement, events like this not only empower our youth but also strengthen our community. Mark your calendars for February 12, 2026, and encourage students in your network to take advantage of this invaluable experience.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the San Diego Black College Expo?
The San Diego Black College Expo is an event that connects high school juniors and seniors with representatives from over 50 historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), as well as local, regional, and military colleges and universities. Attendees can engage with admissions officers, explore academic programs, and learn about scholarship opportunities.
When and where is the expo taking place?
The expo is scheduled for Thursday, February 12, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 2:30 PM at the MLK Center at Bayview Baptist Church in San Diego, California.
Who is eligible to attend?
The event is open to high school juniors and seniors of all racial and ethnic backgrounds, as well as their families and education professionals. Admission is free for all attendees.
How can I register for the event?
Registration details are available on the San Diego County Office of Education website. Interested individuals can visit the website to register and obtain more information about the event.
What are the scholarship opportunities?
Many HBCUs offer on-the-spot acceptances to qualifying students, and scholarships are awarded throughout the event. To be eligible for a scholarship, students must submit a 500-word essay on the topic “Why is a college education important to me.” The deadline for essay submission is February 2.
Key Features of the San Diego Black College Expo
| Feature | Description |
|---|---|
| Event Date and Time | Thursday, February 12, 2026, from 11:00 AM to 2:30 PM |
| Location | MLK Center at Bayview Baptist Church, San Diego, CA |
| Participating Institutions | Over 50 historically Black colleges and universities, local, regional, and military colleges and universities |
| Admission | Free for high school students, families, and education professionals |
| Scholarship Opportunities | On-the-spot acceptances and scholarships; 500-word essay required for scholarship eligibility |
| Seminars | Topics include financial aid, transition from high school to college, and benefits of attending an HBCU |
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