On April 19, 1837, Cheyney University of Pennsylvania was established as the Institute for Colored Youth, making it the first Historically Black College and University (HBCU) in the United States. Founded in Cheyney, Pennsylvania, the school was created through a $10,000 endowment by Quaker philanthropist Richard Humphreys to provide education for African Americans. Originally focused on teacher training, Cheyney played a vital role in uplifting generations of Black leaders, educators, and intellectuals. Its legacy paved the way for future HBCUs and remains a cornerstone of Black academic history.
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