Southern tops list in study on African-Americans graduates

Southern University produces the fifth most African-American graduates who go on to earn doctorates among all colleges and universities in the nation, according to a recently published study conducted by a three-member team from the University of Pennsylvania. According to the study's findings, released at the recent annual meeting of the American Educational Research Association in San Diego, California, historically black colleges and universities make up 8 of the top 10 producers of African-American graduates who go on to earn doctorates. Southern finished ahead of Jackson State University, Morehouse College, the University of Michigan, North Carolina A&T University, and the University of California at Berkeley, according to the study. "This is clear evidence that Southern University continues to be a leader in producing students who are gifted and who will be successful wherever they go," said Southern Chancellor Kofi Lomotey. "Also looming large in the findings is the importance of HBCUs in preparing students for terminal degrees," Lomotey said. "When the question is asked about the relevance of HBCUs, these findings provide the answer." The study, which focused on which institutions produce the most minority graduates who go on to earn doctorates, was The four schools ahead of Southern include: Howard University, Spelman College, Florida A&M University and Hampton University. According to the survey, Howard produced 34 African American graduates who later earned doctorates, Spelman 31, Florida A&M 28, Hampton 27 and Southern 26.