In 1837, the saga of historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) began a sturdy foundation that arguably built the African American community.
HBCUs yield more than a quarter of all African-American graduates in the country. In the 2017-2018 academic school year, 48,300 degrees were conferred by HBCUs. Every 365 days, nearly fifty thousand young minds complete a life changing cultural experience known as the HBCU-experience. After this educational rite of passage, graduates have the tools, knowledge, experience and network to accomplish their dreams and change the world. Many civil rights leaders, doctors, religious leaders, bankers, writers, Olympians, lawyers, musicians, engineers, actors, humanitarians, professional athletes, educators, scientists, and politicians that are woven into the advancement of The United States of America and beyond hail from Black colleges. Right now, more than ever, we need these leaders.
For the sixth year in a row, we recognize the significant achievement of alumni from these prestigious powerhouses. Various industries of former Top 30ers include sports, STEM, entertainment, media, business, public service and fashion. Check out the former classes here. From the youngest person to ever make the list, Clark Atlanta University’s Kahlil Darden at 19-years-old, to international superstar, Lil Yachty, this year’s top 30 is a diverse group of Black excellence. Congratulations to the 2020 HBCU Top 30 Under 30 Class.
28Monique A. Mitchell
Monique A. Mitchell is a certified full-time dreamer and doer, juggling many hats as an entrepreneur, publicist, podcaster and media influencer. Mitchel is a graduate of Florida A&M University. She’s a skilled communications guru with over nine years of experience in the entertainment and network television industries. Her inherent knack for public relations landed her a start with the historic and prestigious NBC East Coast Page program in New York City where she worked for various shows and networks including: “Saturday Night Live,” ‘TODAY,” “30 Rock Live,” Oxygen and NBC News, to name a few. Today, she continues to build on her impressive professional career as a publicist for one of the world’s leading entertainment brands helping build premium content, launching animated series, spreading the word about immersive digital spaces, implementing social media strategy, managing talent, creating memorable viewer experiences and more!
She prides herself on being a millennial woman of color who can do both – navigate the waters of corporate America and use her passions to create her own opportunities. Her affinity to help others grow their small businesses and educate them on the power of public relations has propelled her into the world of entrepreneurship. In 2019, ESSENCE Magazine featured the launch of her Atlanta-based boutique PR agency, Mo Mitch Media where she works one-on-one with entrepreneurs, influencers and creatives alike to build brands and gain maximum exposure. Her press placements include: Forbes, Black Enterprise, AfroTech, xoNecole, The Everygirl, The Shade Room, The Atlanta Voice, SHEEN Magazine, BAUCE Magazine, Quintessential Gentleman and the list goes on.
Monique is known for her gift of gab, magnetic personality and unapologetic authenticity. Every Monday, you can catch an episode of her podcast, “One Mo Minute,” for #MoMitchMondays where she shares hilarious and heartfelt gems of wisdom from her personal experiences and thoughts. This one-of-a-kind podcast is For Girls Who Do Too D*mn Much!
