Back in October during a contentious gubernatorial race, then-candidate Glenn Youngkin visited Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) such as Norfolk State University, Hampton University, and Virginia Union University. While at VU, he announced in front of the L. Douglas Wilder Library that his plan for the ARPA funds would include upwards of $100 million to support HBCUs throughout the state.

If recent reports are any indication, it appears those plans may have changed.

A direct look at Bill Order Item 137 #20C shows that for FY2023, $100,000,000 will be deposited towards the College Partnership Laboratory School Fund. What this means is that it will make way for the design of more charter schools in the state, which was another of Youngkin’s goals upon winning the election. Nothing appears in the budget item towards covering HBCUs in FY2024 as well.

While Youngkin did request emergency funds to protect HBCUs earlier this year during a time when several bomb threats were being made, this recent budget announcement seems like a sharp about-face for one of his campaign promises to Black communities. Delegate Canid King (D-2nd House District), a graduate of Norfolk State University, said the following on Twitter:

What this will mean for HBCUs in Virginia is anyone’s guess, but for now, they are once again left to their own devices when it comes to the state’s priorities.