Barber-Scotia College Secures Educational Tax Exemption, Boosting HBCU's Comeback Efforts

CONCORD, N.C. — Barber-Scotia College, a historic Historically Black College and University (HBCU) in Concord, North Carolina, has secured a significant victory in its ongoing recovery efforts. The North Carolina Property Tax Commission has issued a final decision affirming the school's eligibility for an educational property-tax exemption on multiple campus parcels used for educational purposes.

The exemption, which applies to the 2023 tax year, covers Barber-Scotia's historic Concord campus and is seen as a critical financial and operational boost as the HBCU moves forward with its strategic recovery plan. President Chris V. Rey hailed the decision as an "important affirmation of Barber-Scotia College's mission, purpose, and future."

Founded in 1867 as Scotia Seminary for African American women, Barber-Scotia College has a rich history as one of the nation's oldest HBCUs. The institution later amended its charter in 1954 to admit students regardless of ethnicity or gender. However, the college faced challenges in the early 2000s, losing its accreditation in 2004.

Under the leadership of President Rey, Barber-Scotia is working to regain its accreditation by 2026 and implement a strategic recovery plan that includes expanded workforce and vocational programming, campus renovations, and enrollment growth efforts.

"This decision is an important affirmation of Barber-Scotia College's mission, purpose, and future," said President Chris V. Rey.

Significance for the HBCU Community

The Barber-Scotia College story is a testament to the resilience and determination of HBCUs in the face of adversity. As one of the oldest HBCUs in the country, Barber-Scotia's comeback efforts are not just about the institution itself, but also about the larger HBCU community's fight to preserve and strengthen these vital educational institutions.

HBCUConnect.com, the premier online community for HBCU alumni and supporters, recognizes the significance of this victory for Barber-Scotia and the HBCU community as a whole. The tax exemption decision provides a much-needed financial boost, allowing the college to redirect resources towards initiatives that will not only benefit its students but also contribute to the overall revitalization of the HBCU landscape. This win represents a step forward in the ongoing efforts to ensure the long-term sustainability and success of Historically Black Colleges and Universities, which have played a crucial role in providing access to higher education and opportunities for generations of African American students.

Originally reported by HBCU Gameday.