HARI SREENIVASAN:

The order will move the government's program for coordinating HBCUs back directly under the White House.

But the president didn't commit any additional funds to the schools yet, some of which are struggling financially. Many presidents of HBCUs are in Washington this week, calling for $25 billion more in the upcoming budget.

HBCUs were established after the Civil War to provide higher learning for black citizens who were deliberately shut out of most universities. Today, there are 100 HBCUS. Nearly 300,000 students are enrolled in them. Every president since Mr. Jimmy Carter has issued executive orders on HBCUS.

During President Obama's tenure, he expanded Pell Grants for schools overall, but initially approved tighter loan conditions for black colleges and never held meetings with the group. It was often a rocky relationship. A number of HBCUs still are in financial distress.

Johnny Taylor, president and CEO of Thurgood Marshall College Fund, which helps fund HBCUs, says the schools need more money collectively.

JOHNNY TAYLOR, President and CEO, Thurgood Marshall College Fund: We should be very clear that we want this administration and the 115th Congress to make good on the money. You cannot have mission without money.