Published: 02:17 GMT, 26 October 2025 | Updated: 02:28 GMT, 26 October 2025

The prestigious Howard University may soon be expanding its facilities to crime-plagued Oakland, California.

A representative from the historically black academic institution, located in Washington, DC, confirmed that the university has been discussing these plans with Oakland Mayor Barbara Lee.

'We have had preliminary discussions with Mayor Lee, but it is premature to discuss any real estate endeavors in this area at this time,' a spokesperson told the San Francisco Chronicle.

Lee, who earned an honorary Doctor of Laws degree from Howard in May, also acknowledged the ongoing efforts to bring the college to the Bay Area city, which was ranked the second-most dangerous in the US.

'I have been leading discussions with Howard University and will continue to engage with them about exploring opportunities in Oakland,' Lee wrote to the SF Chronicle.

Established in 1867, Howard University has become known for its exceptional research opportunities and strong academic offerings.

In 2023, Howard's acceptance rate was 34.9 percent, with 68.8 percent of the student body identifying as black or African American.

The elite institution's alumni include novelist Toni Morrison and former Vice President Kamala Harris, who happens to be an Oakland native.

The prestigious Howard University was established in 1867 and is located in Washington, DC