UNCF Scholarships Helped this Non-Traditional Alum to Graduate Nearly Debt-Free
Every year, UNCF provides thousands of scholarships with millions of dollars. These integral funds help turn the dream of graduating from college debt-free into a reality.
One of our recent scholarship recipients is Michael Crossley, Sr., a double alumnus of Virginia Union University (VUU), one of UNCF’s member institutions. During his undergraduate and graduate education, he received two UNCF scholarships: one thanks to donations from Patty Quillin and Reed Hastings and another through a UNCF block grant.
At VUU, Crossley earned recognition as a top student in the Sydney Lewis School of Business, receiving a graduate-level executive master of business administration and a marketing degree.
“UNCF allowed me to matriculate through five years of undergrad and graduate school just about debt-free,” Crossley said.
Crossley created an account on UNCF’s scholarships site, which enabled him to apply for a variety of opportunities, including scholarships, internships, fellowships, grants, loan forgiveness and more.
He has received numerous accolades. In 2024, Crossley was selected to represent VUU for the third time as a White House Initiative HBCU cohort scholar. The initiative provides HBCU students with opportunities such as a week-long conference in Washington, DC, pitching contests, awards, meetings with the president and vice president of the United States and a chance to engage with key stakeholders to explore the challenges facing HBCUs.
He has also served as the president of the Sigma Nu Tau Entrepreneurship honor society and the Delta Mu Delta International honor society in business, and was a co-valedictorian for the class of 2024.
Crossley is a huge supporter of HBCUs as well as the next generation of college students and leaders. He is the founder and chief executive officer of H.B.C.U. Educational Tours & Programs Inc., a nonprofit that provides tours to HBCUs around the country to youth in cities throughout Washington, D.C., VA and NC. “This program will allow youth in the inner cities to experience what higher education has to offer if they pursue their long-term goals,” the nonprofit’s website said.
Crossley’s education journey isn’t done yet. Next, he is heading to another esteemed HBCU, Jackson State University, to begin a doctoral program in urban and regional planning.
“I will be applying again for more scholarships,” he shared.
His advice to fellow students: “Don’t let this opportunity pass you by,” he said. “Trust me, [with] four years as a UNCF Ambassador, this opportunity is real.”
“The ambassador program gives me a pathway to help students zero the loan,” he continued. “Potential students should know about UNCF prior to entering high school.”
UNCF is proud of our students and alumni who have received scholarships that help them continue their education and graduate. These scholarships and programs are invaluable to students, and UNCF is accepting donations to support students like Michael Crossley in their academic endeavors.