Shaw University

About

Shaw University, founded in 1865 by Henry Martin Tupper, stands as a beacon of opportunity and academic excellence in the heart of Downtown Raleigh, North Carolina. As the oldest Historically Black College and University (HBCU) in the American South and one of the first in the nation, Shaw has been pioneering higher education access for over 160 years. The university was originally established as the Raleigh Theological Institute, with early students - many former slaves - meeting in sharecroppers' cabins and crafting bricks to build their own classrooms. This spirit of determination and community empowerment has defined Shaw University throughout its remarkable history. Today, Shaw University serves nearly 1,100 students, offering a diverse range of academic programs across multiple schools and departments. The institution is particularly proud of its commitment to student success, with approximately 86% of incoming freshmen completing their degrees at Shaw, citing the university's close-knit, family-like environment. Shaw's academic offerings span arts, sciences, business, health professions, and emerging fields like digital technology and cybersecurity. The university's Center for Cybersecurity Education and Research prepares students for careers in cyber operations, policy, and ethics, while the Innovation and Entrepreneurship Center supports aspiring Black entrepreneurs. With a Technology Advisory Council featuring specialists from Apple, Google, Cisco, IBM, and Red Hat, Shaw ensures students have critical connections to resources and relationships in the tech sector. Shaw University's legacy extends far beyond academics. The institution has been home to pivotal moments in American history, including the founding of the Student Non-Violent Coordinating Committee (SNCC) in 1960 by alumna Ella Baker. Shaw graduates have included members of Congress, college presidents, civil rights leaders, Grammy-winning artists, and professional athletes. The university continues to promote meaningful social change through its Center for Racial and Social Justice, building on a heritage of activism and scholarship that dates back to its founding.