Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) roots were established after the Civil War as a  segregated system for educating the ex-slaves and their descendants. With the assistance of religious missionary organizations such as the Quakers in the northern United States, most were founded in the southern region of the United States. In 1862, land grant colleges were established by the federal government as well as some black private schools. Other contributors included landmark schools like the Rosenwald schools. 
As early as the 1930s, there was a influx of diversity. As the schools survived racial segregation and other adversities, HBCUs diverse and embraced students from other races, religions, or countries of origin. 
They established a rich legacy of producing some of the major contributors in every walk of life and profession. Here are some salutes to them.