IMPACT

Chief among them was the historic increase in discretionary funding by Congress and the Biden administration for the Title III Part B, strengthening Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) Program, which surpassed $400 million for the first time.

“This remarkable accomplishment was a defining highlight of the fiscal year and a testament to the power of UNCF’s relentless advocacy on behalf of HBCUs,” said Lodriguez M. Murray, senior vice president, Public Policy and Government Affairs, UNCF.

The Title III program has long been a lifeline for HBCUs, providing critical resources to strengthen academic programs, upgrade infrastructure and enhance student support services. These investments ensure that HBCUs continue to serve as gateways to opportunity and excellence, particularly for students from historically underserved communities.

“This milestone is all the more extraordinary when we reflect on where we started,” Murray noted. “For years, discretionary funding for Title III was stalled at around $244 million, with little movement and incremental increases at best. The tide began to turn with a $40 million increase in fiscal year 2019, breaking years of stagnation and creating a pathway for the record-breaking progress we celebrate today. To see this program exceed $400 million in 2024—at a time when progress in Washington often seemed elusive—is nothing short of extraordinary. It demonstrates that even in challenging times, dedicated advocacy and strategic coalition-building can yield powerful results.”

This achievement reflects the unwavering commitment of UNCF’s Public Policy and Government Affairs team, as well as the collective efforts of our partners, stakeholders and policymakers who recognize the vital role HBCUs play in shaping our nation’s future. Together, we have shown what is possible when we prioritize equity and opportunity for all.

“While we celebrate this incredible progress, we remain laser-focused on the future,” Murray said. “Our next goal is clear: securing $500 million in discretionary funding for the Title III program. We know this will require the same bold vision, determination and collaboration that brought us to this point, and we are ready to meet the challenge.”

As UNCF reflects on 2024, we do so with immense pride in what we have accomplished and a deep commitment to the work that lies ahead. The success of HBCUs is not just a victory for the institutions themselves but a triumph for the students, families and communities they serve—and for the nation as a whole.

Working in concert with our partners, stakeholders and policymakers, we will continue to advance the mission of HBCUs and ensure their legacy of excellence and opportunity endures for generations of HBCU students to become the future leaders of our nation.