The White House Initiative on Advancing Educational Equity, Excellence, and Economic Opportunity through historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) announced a new cohort of HBCU Scholars, marking the 10th anniversary of this transformative program.
On Aug. 9, the White House Initiative selected two students from Alabama State University as White House Scholars: Michael Stallworth Jr. and Calandrea Carter.
These students were selected for their exceptional academic achievements, leadership potential and dedication to their communities. This year, Stallworth and Carter will join 108 outstanding students from 77 HBCUs across the nation.
“For 10 years, the HBCU Scholars program has celebrated the exceptional academic talent and achievements of students at our historically Black colleges and universities – a recognition that reflects the Biden-Harris Administration’s determination to fight for our nation’s HBCUs and their immense contributions to excellence and diversity in higher education,” said U.S. Secretary of Education Miguel Cardona. “This year’s 110 outstanding students exemplify Black excellence – and fill us with hope for the promise of tomorrow. We couldn’t be prouder to support them on their journey.”
Since its inception in 2014, the HBCU Scholars program has been committed to recognizing and supporting the brightest and service-oriented minds from HBCUs. Over the past decade, the program has empowered over 500 students, providing them with invaluable opportunities for personal and professional growth, mentorship and networking.
Stallworth, a senior accounting major from Mobile, Alabama, is deeply involved in various HBCU programs and leadership roles throughout his college career.
“I did a lot of HBCU programs in the past such as HBCU Battle of the Brains and Thurgood Marshall College Fund events,” Stallworth shared. These experiences connected him with fellow HBCU students who held prominent positions at their schools and represented their institutions at high levels.
Although Stallworth had known about the White House HBCU Scholars program for some time, he decided to apply during his senior year, viewing it as the “cherry on top” of his undergraduate journey.
“I really prepared over the course of two years,” he explained. “My application was nearly completed a year in advance, because I thought about applying the year before.” With strong support from professors who provided recommendation letters, Stallworth felt confident in his application process, noting that “you don’t make any shots you don’t take.”
Stallworth’s aspirations extend to the finance industry, where he gained valuable experience as an intern in investment banking at Citibank in New York.
“I’m definitely interested in the banking industry, but I’m also interested in the government a little bit,” he shared. “As a White House HBCU Scholar, I look forward to connecting with influential figures in the U.S. government and gaining insights that will benefit my long-term career goals, like starting my own private equity firm.”
Reflecting on his journey, Stallworth acknowledged his challenges, including setbacks such as losing an election for Student Government Association (SGA) Treasurer.
“Overcoming losing my election was hard,” he said, “but I’m still pushing toward Alabama State, pushing toward the community, and making sure I still achieve the goals I wanted to achieve in a different role.”
He encouraged other students to build leadership experiences on campus and get involved in initiatives to make a lasting impact.
“Get some leadership under your belt first,” Stallworth said. “To become a leader beyond campus, you should become a leader on your campus. Get involved in different initiatives that the university offers to get your face out there. Let people see who you are.”
Stallworth’s commitment to community service has been a driving force throughout his time at the university.
“I’m actively involved with the Montgomery community through my work with National Pan Hellenic Council, my fraternity, Kappa Alpha Psi and the NAACP,” he said. “Doing a lot of community service has always meant more to me. I plan to continue my community involvement after graduation.”
Stallworth also emphasized the importance of HBCU representation in the workforce.
“I want to make sure that people understand that we are not just a diversity hire. We’re here to stay, we’re here to change companies and organizations and be leaders within the world,” he asserted.
Carter, a junior broadcast journalism major, specializing in radio and television, is equally dedicated to making a difference at the university and beyond. As a White House HBCU Scholar, Carter’s mission is to address critical issues such as sports equity, sexual and mental health, and entrepreneurial resources.
“My initiative, the Advancement of Collegiate Competence, advocates for ethical conduct, cultural competence, leadership, scholarship, citizenship and mindfulness for personal growth,” Carter said.
Carter’s advocacy extends to HBCU resources, as she plans to champion opportunities for students to travel abroad, gain cultural competence and cultivate a strong moral compass.
“I was so happy to find out my efforts were recognized with an internship at the U.S. Agency for Global Media,” Carter said. “This opportunity has been amazing to connect with other prestigious HBCU students and build long-lasting relationships with federal agency partners.”
On campus, Carter is a pioneer and main anchor of “Buzz On The Yard,” a show that amplifies the voices of the university’s students.
“Buzz On The Yard serves as a powerful outlet where I get to showcase various facets of student life at Alabama State University,” Carter explained. “The show features segments on fashion, the experiences of first-generation college students and promotes local businesses, which fosters an entrepreneurial spirit among my peers.”
Carter is also an active member of the SGA, serving as a senator-at-large.
“In this role, I advocate for the student body’s needs, ensuring that their voices are heard and their concerns addressed,” she said. “My involvement with the White House Initiative on HBCUs highlights my commitment to civic engagement and creating opportunities for students to thrive.”