It was recently announced that Prairie View A&M University (PVAMU) would receive a $200,000 grant to support initiatives that aim to diversify representation in media. PVAMU was one of 15 schools across the country to receive the grant from The Propel Center.

The Propel Center, a company that aims to help HBCUs empower the next generation of leaders, is part of  Apple’s Nationwide Investment in Racial Equity and Justice. The goal of the initiative is to invest in  institutions and organizations that support racial justice by pushing for a more inclusive world. 

As reported by Diverse Education, PVAMU’s Department of Languages and Communication will use the grant fund to create a weekly TV show titled, “HBCU Today: Propel to Excel.” This show will highlight the achievements of HBCU students, faculty, and staff across America. 

Dr. Teresa Dowell-Vest, assistant professor of communication and director of film and television production made the following statement on the upcoming show (via News Nation USA):

“This opportunity will allow our students to network with their peers at other HBCUs and celebrate other institutions charged with affirming the experiences of those underrepresented in higher education and media,” said Dr. Manning. “PVAMU is a training ground for the next generation of journalists, filmmakers, and content creators.”

With this announcement, there is hope that  more prospective students will be exposed to the culture and achievements of HBCUs. In addition, it will draw more awareness to the excellence of each school, which can potentially provide more funding for new facilities and research opportunities.