Enrollment at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) is at its lowest in over 50 years, primarily due to young Black men feeling disconnected, misunderstood, and unsupported in these spaces. Many don’t see themselves represented and feel the institutions fall short of their promises. Dr. Charles Cole reflects on the deeper systemic problems, including poor early education, lack of genuine support, and strained family dynamics. To fix this, we need to improve education, address mental health, foster genuine inclusion, and empower young Black men to seek mentorship and create their own paths to success.