Koch and Swinton present a powerful argument that HBCUs are 'vital and valuable.' Meticulously researched with detailed empiricism, the authors back up the claims that many make anecdotally. Comparing HBCUs to elite universities, state-supported universities, and other types of colleges and universities, Koch and Swinton make a convincing case that HBCUs are a critical part of the higher education landscape. If there were no HBCUs, some say, we would have to invent them, even in a so-called post-racial world. Swinton and Koch examine the history of HBCUs, including the racist history of governmental bias against HBCUs. They offer policy suggestions to strengthen HBCUs' sometimes fragile financial position, with recommendations for government, corporations, businesses, and philanthropy. Importantly, though Koch and Swinton are clear HBCU boosters, they do not avoid some uncomfortable aspects of the HBCU reality. Their candor, and the empiricism surrounding their assertions, strengthen their case. This clear-eyed and factual look at HBCUs is a must-read for anyone who cares about education, equity, and our nation's future. I learned from and enjoyed this book. I wish that some of the legislators who vote on HBCU appropriations would read Vital and Valuable so that it might inform their votes on appropriations.
