An HBCU education is truly a privilege. It provides a priceless atmosphere for students of color to receive a solid education while instilling unapologetic confidence.  In the current national climate of heightened racial tensions, a volatile political environment, and an impression that most are only out to help themselves, we are thrilled to celebrate how 30 passionate young minds took their HBCU foundation and made history.

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) produce more than a quarter of all African-American graduates in the country and are responsible for producing many of the nation’s black leaders. Iconic civil rights leaders, doctors, religious leaders, bankers, writers, Olympians, lawyers, musicians, engineers, actors, humanitarians, professional athletes, educators, scientists, and politicians have been educated at HBCUs.

Every year, the HBCU Top 30 Under 30 honors talented young men and women who are making remarkable strides in a variety of industries including sports, STEM, entertainment, media, business, public service and fashion. Among this year’s nominees are a star female rapper, an agile NFL quarterback, a community activist bringing fresh produce to the inner city, and a viral YouTube influencer. Check out the former classes here.

This year, with a record-breaking amount of nominations, we are exceptionally proud to present the 5th HBCU Top 30 Under 30 class. Congratulations to the young leaders who have been recognized, and congratulations to the esteemed HBCUs that have indisputably provided a strong and lasting foundation for the leaders of today and tomorrow.

20Ambria Berksteiner | Spelman College

Ambria Berksteiner is a stellar Industrial Engineer who in 2017 was crowned Miss Black Savannah USA. As Miss Black Savannah, Ambria represented the city at the 2017 Miss Black Georgia USA Scholarship Pageant. Despite the chance to represent the whole state of Georgia, the pageant also held the possibility of academic scholarship award to help continue her educational endeavors.

Ambria’s passion for STEM has been reflected in her education and activities. She completed an ambitious Dual Degree in Engineering and Mathematics from Spelman College. She is currently working on her Master of Science in Industrial and Systems Engineering at Auburn University. She is planning to continue her education with a PhD.

Ambria has also worked to ensure that others have access to learning about STEM as well. She created Operation: Changing the World One STEM at a Time to mentor young African American girls who are interested in STEM-related careers. The program features visual arts to encourage creativity and make STEM more appealing for the students.

Ambria values both STEM and visual arts, and her Operation program allows for them to intersect. She was creating outfits back as a Savannah Arts Academy high school student. With the annual Junk 2 Funk Fashion Show in mind, she used her imagination to create clothes using multiple mediums. Creativity is vital, and by encouraging other girls at a young age she can give them priceless tools for success.  Her involvement in the STEM 360 Summer Enrichment Camp of Savannah State University and surrounding city has allowed for her to spark young minds from elementary to high schools. African American women are about three times less likely to pursue engineering degrees than males. Ambria has worked tirelessly to change that. Follow Ambria Berksteiner on Instagram.

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  2. Eeeeeee-Yip! So pRHOud of the work my SoRHOr and Bestfriend is doing! Keep it up! You inspire us all.

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