Updated: Aug. 01, 2024, 7:54 a.m. | Published: Jul. 30, 2024, 6:07 p.m.
By Cody D. Short | cshort@al.com
Alabama has more Historically Black Colleges and Universities, or HBCUs, than any other state in America.
Because HBCUs are a huge cultural cornerstone in the state, people from all over the country begin their collegiate careers on one of the 14 campuses. However, each campus offers a unique blend of historical charm and natural beauty.
5. Bishop State Community College
The main campus features a blend of historic and modern architectural elements. This includes several buildings with traditional brick facades and updated facilities with well-maintained green spaces, paved walkways, and areas where students can relax. The urban setting contributes to its aesthetic, with views of the cityscape and nearby historical landmarks.
In 2023, Bishop State Community College celebrated the Gene Haas Center for Advanced Manufacturing Technology, which serves as a training facility in a variety of STEM programs, including Computer-Aided Drafting and Design, 3D printing, Electronic Engineering Technology (EET), and Mechatronics and Robotics. At the time, Jimmy Baker, chancellor of the Alabama Community College System, said the center is the “model” for other community colleges around the state.
4. Oakwood University
Oakwood University is Huntsville’s private Seventh Day Adventist HBCU, and it is steeped in the arts. The campus is known for its picturesque and serene setting against the backdrop of the Tennessee Valley.
Situated on a hillside, it offers beautiful views of the campus and is surrounded by greenery with gorgeously landscaped lawns and wooded areas that provide a tranquil and inviting atmosphere.
Oakwood has several historic buildings that reflect its long history, including the main administration building and other structures preserved and integrated into the modern campus environment. It’s also home to Rock & Roll Hall of Famer Little Richard’s remains.
3. Stillman College
This HBCU sits in the heart of Tuscaloosa. If you’re able to view the center of the campus, known as Sheppard Lawn, through the gates on 15th Street, you’ll see a beautifully manicured lawn (that students are discouraged from walking on) covered with large magnolia trees. The campus features a blend of historic and modern architecture. The older buildings, like the administration building and older academic structures, highlight classic brick facades and traditional design elements.
Like most HBCU campuses, there is a mix of buildings new and old. However, Stillman College’s campus is noted for its blend of historical elegance and modern functionality.
There are various student-centered spaces on campus, including the Hay Student Center and Greek Row, where they can gather for studying, as well as social and recreational activities.
Additionally, on the east side of the campus, you’ll find a beautiful, water fountain in the Melissia N. Davis courtyard facing the back of the Hay Center which also sits across from the President’s house, that will remind you of a storybook cottage.
2. Alabama A&M University
Alabama A&M University is the state’s largest HBCU with around 6,000 students and is also called, The Hill, because of the geographical feature of the campus’s location on a prominent hill. Over time, the campus’ elevated position became a defining characteristic, earning it the affectionate nickname among students, alumni, and the Huntsville community.
The campus sits on a 1,100-acre site, featuring a well-planned layout with expansive lawns, shaded areas, and tree-lined paths. Key historic buildings such as the Cunningham Hall and The Carnegie Library reflect the university’s long-standing tradition and heritage. In contrast, modern facilities include the Wilhelmina J. Harris Performing Arts Center and the New Student Center, which offer up-to-date amenities and support contemporary educational and extracurricular needs.
1. Tuskegee University
Known for its many historical contributions, Tuskegee is the only university in the nation that’s registered as a National Historic Site. But that is not the only reason we picked the school in our top spot.
The campus was primarily built by Tuskegee University students in the early 1900s while founder and its first president Booker T. Washington led the school, and it received funding from wealthy donors like John D. Rockefeller and Henry Ford.
The entire campus sits on more than 5,000 acres of land, but the core campus is 240 acres and includes the campus’ most historical buildings that face The Yard, where students gather in between classes. Due to the historic landmark status of the university, none of the buildings can be demolished or replaced -- they can only be renovated, which is why most of the campus still features the Neoclassicism architecture that was prominent during the early 1900s.
One significant landmark is the chapel used for various ceremonies, highlighting the historical aspects of the university. It also sits next to the university’s on-campus cemetery where Booker T. Washington, George Washington Carver, and a few past university presidents are buried.
In 2023, Southern Living named Tuskegee University as one of Alabama’s most beautiful college campuses in the South. “Each beautiful building is steeped in rich history, adding to their appeal, and the rural locale promises sweeping greenery,” the article said.