Colleges and Universities nationwide are being stretched to the limit in this economic crisis... and many are facing major budget cuts.

But Historically Black Colleges and Universities are being hit especially hard.

Not too long ago, Bianca Black attended a diverse high school.....but it wasn't equal.

Black says, "It was a struggle, they pushed Caucasians more...hispanics."

So she chose a Historically Black College and University...FAMU.

"I really wanted a sense of belonging and a sense of unity and I really do get that at 'FAM," says Black.

HBCUs are fighting for their futures.

Many lack strong alumni support...and with enrollments dropping and fundraising down, many Black schools are feeling the heat.

Spelman College is phasing out its Department of Education while Morehouse College laid-off a third of its part-time instructors.

FAMU officials don't deny the money troubles HBCUs are facing...but they say they're not fighting the battle alone.

FAMU Vice President for University Relations Carla Willis says, "Harvard took an $8 Billion hit in its endowment, I think that we are all suffering because we all have our monies invested in the market."

Officials say financial support from alumni is strong, but the university needs to cut $16 million from the budget.

This could mean furloughs and dropping some programs.

Some students say they choose an HBCU for the historical importance.

"It gives me a lot of respect for where I come from," says FAMU Sophomore Michael Taylor.

And officials say if history is any indication, HBCUs will live through this crisis.

FAMU officials say the university is weathering this crisis well thanks to the strong leadership of President James Ammons.