Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) are institutions established prior to 1964 whose principle mission was, and is, the education of Black Americans. HBCUs must be accredited by a nationally recognized accrediting agency. These institutions continue the mission of serving African-American students while also serving a diverse student population that includes all races and ethnic backgrounds. Most importantly, the HBCU continues to provide enhanced opportunities for academic success. There are approximately 103 HBCUs, located in 21 different states, the District of Columbia, and the U.S. Virgin Islands.

The Tour

Each year, since 1981 a group of 80-120 students have boarded buses, embarking from Hempstead, New York on an 8-day adventure of discovery and personal growth.

The ETL Education Foundation along with its community partner—Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Incorporated—Eta Theta Lambda Chapter continues to organize, shepherd, and sculpt the College Tour Program into a multi-week event.

With its higher education partners that have included Hofstra University, Adelphi University, Nassau Community College, and Farmingdale State College, the Foundation has sculpted the College Tour Program that includes five weeks of interactive workshops—both live and remote that culminate in boarding the buses.

The Tour typically occurs during the last full week in October. In 2026 the Tour was held between October 24 through 31. In 2026, the Tour visited: Delaware State University, Morgan State University, Virginia State University, Hampton University, North Carolina Central University, North Carolina A&T State University, Elizabeth City State University, South Carolina State University, Claflin University, Spelman College, Morehouse College, and Clark Atlanta University.

Students also participated in the inaugural Legends Classic football game at Lincoln Financial Stadium in Philadelphia, Pa.

Over twenty students received onsite admissions to several visited schools along with scholarship awards.

The College Tour is supported by over twenty experienced adult chaperones that include at least four registered nurses.