RK&K recognizes HBCU Week and celebrates the important roles historically Black colleges and universities play in providing exceptional education, creating career opportunities, and advancing diversity nationwide.
To bring attention to HBCU Week, we asked some of our team members to share more about their experiences in these institutions and how they guided them on their current career paths and successes.
Project Manager Kevin Younger, PSP, CCM, LACP, MACP, PACP
“HBCUs hold significant importance in our history, particularly as they emerged during a time when people of color—especially black individuals—were systematically denied access to education,” said Project Manager Kevin Younger, PSP, CCM, LACP, MACP, PACP, a member of our Construction office who attended Morgan State University’s School of Engineering. “Although we have made tremendous strides, we still face many challenges ahead. It’s vital for prospective students to see successful, educated individuals who look like them thriving in institutions that celebrate their diversity and potential. That sense of pride needs to be passed along to future generations, for us to continue our educational, financial, and social growth.”
Engineer Kayla Cash, EIT
Engineer Kayla Cash, EIT in RK&K’s Traffic team said that attending an HBCU, Howard University, “was the best decision I ever made.”
“Howard University was the most diverse school I attended, and it gave me the best education I have since experienced,” she added.
Younger echoed these sentiments and said getting an education at an HBCU allowed him to foster unique connections with others who share similar experiences and perspectives.
“My experience at an HBCU instilled in me a profound sense of pride that resonates deeply with fellow graduates.”
HBCU Week has been celebrated since 1980 and aims to spotlight the over 100 HBCUs across 19 states, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. Virgin Islands that educate over 300,000 students every year.
Engineer Teneil Hunter
“My experience at North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University was priceless! I was provided with the perfect environment for me to evolve into the driven, ambitious individual I am today, all while developing a robust and supportive network. As a student, I learned to identify as a professional while retaining my African American identity,” said Engineer Teneil Hunter, a member of RK&K’s Water Resources Environmental team in Virginia Beach. “Since my freshman year, I was involved in student organizations and mentorship programs that helped me advance my academic and social success. Being active in professional societies and participating in career preparation activities better equipped me for life after college. A&T will always be home and hold a special place in my heart forever!”
“HBCUs are needed institutions that produce amazing alumni, including myself and other members at RK&K,” said Kayla.
RK&K is proud to employ graduates of the following HBCUs:
