WS Chronicle

Undaunted by the coronavirus pandemic that has gripped the nation, veteran journalist and longtime publisher and businessman Richard L. Williams has started another business venture: HBCU Matters magazine, which launched nationwide this month. HBCU Matters magazine will focus on the incredible job 100-plus Black colleges are doing to educate hundreds of thousands of young minds throughout the country, as well as the overall impact of HBCU graduates and current students. 

The inaugural edition features dozens of HBCU homecoming queens and examines virtual homecomings, which became the means by which alumni, students and administrators connected in celebration of the annual tradition during the pandemic. The edition also highlights diversity, equity and inclusion initiatives in certain industries, including banking. 

“Our first edition of HBCU Matters magazine is extremely poignant and timely and shines a spotlight on dozens of phenomenal Black women – and men – who represent their college as homecoming queens and kings,” Williams said. “Because of the coronavirus pandemic, opportunities for these outstanding students to travel the country attending conferences and competitions while representing their institutions or to enhance their global knowledge by studying abroad have been taken away. Through HBCU Matters, we’re giving them some shine that they so richly deserve.” 

HBCU Matters magazine is scheduled to publish a second edition next summer that will focus on the incredible ways HBCUs are preparing students for the future through their investment in science, technology, engineering and mathematics, or STEM. HBCUs graduate the largest number of doctors, engineers and lawyers. 

Since 2003, Williams has published the monthly magazine Black Business Ink and has been a partner in public relations and advertising agencies. Black Business Ink has become a must-read for North Carolina residents who recognize the invaluable service provided by businesses owned by people of color. A former corporate executive who has been an award-winning journalist at newspapers and magazines in North Carolina, New York and Washington, D.C., Williams is a graduate of North Carolina A&T State University. He earned an MBA from the Wake Forest University School of Business and will begin pursuing his doctoral degree in leadership studies in 2021. 

Inaugural edition of HBCU Matters magazine is launched by North Carolina-based Black Business Media LLC. Richard L. Williams is chairman and publisher. HBCU Matters magazine cover art design by Nikko Designs.