Our Mission

UNCF envisions a nation where all Americans have equal accessto a college education that prepares them for rich intellectual lives, competitive and fulfilling careers, engaged citizenship and service to our nation.

UNCF’s mission is to build a robust and nationally recognized pipeline of underrepresented students who, because of UNCF support, become highly qualified college graduates and to ensure that our network of member institutions is a respected model of best practices in moving students to and through college.

UNCF’s North Star is to increase the total annual number of African American college graduates by focusing on activities that ensure more students are college-ready, enroll in college and persist to graduation. This is done through a three-pillar strategy:

• Positioning member institutions as a viable college option for students and investing in institutional capacity to improve student outcomes.

• Creating transformational support programs to ensure that students are enrolling and persisting through college completion.

• Building awareness of educational attainment and cultivating college-going behaviors within the African American community.

UNCF: Building a Pathway of Educational Support From K-12 Through College and Career

    Dear friend of UNCF, Welcome to UNCF’s annual report for the 2019 fiscal year. We are often asked the secrets behind UNCF’s success: 75 years and counting, more than $5 billion in contributions and 500,000 graduates from UNCF-member HBCUs with UNCF scholarships. “No secret,” we reply, “It’s all in the Annual Report.” This year’s report is no exception. As we told a packed house in our first-ever annual address about the health and well-being of HBCUs (read “The State of the HBCUs”), ever since UNCF was founded in 1944,“HBCUs have persisted, producing educational results far beyond what would be predicted based on their size and funding.” Another story, “A Scholarships Scoop,” reports on the second lane of UNCF’s work: the 400 scholarship, internship and fellowship programs UNCF offers each year, programs whose recipients have an average graduation rate of 70%, almost double the average rate for all African American students and significantly higher than the rate for students of all races and ethnicities. UNCF is also active and effective in securing passage by Congress of legislation providing increased funding and flexibility for HBCUs and for low-income, first-generation college students—“Why UNCF Matters now More than Ever,” and UNCF research provides a rigorous and impactful foundation for UNCF’s advocacy of the right of every student to a K-12 education that prepares them for college and career.

Another story, “A Scholarships Scoop,” reports on the second lane of UNCF’s work: the 400 scholarship, internship and fellowship programs UNCF offers each year, programs whose recipients have an average graduation rate of  70%, almost double the average rate for all African American students and significantly higher than the rate for students of all races and ethnicities.

None of this would be possible, as this Annual Report documents, without the support and partnership of companies, like JPMorgan Chase, ExxonMobil and Coca Cola, that have been with UNCF since it was founded (read “75 Years of Schools, Students and Stewardship”); organizations like Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Inc. (read “The Enduring Power of Partnership”) and Top Ladies of Distinction (read “Volunteering to Make a Difference”) and loyal supporters like UNCF-member institution Morehouse College graduate Herbert Horner, who generously included UNCF in his estate plan (read “A Legacy Of Education”). These are just a few of the “secrets” of UNCF’s success, and just a few of the articles in this Fiscal Year 2019 Annual Report. Read this Report straight through or browse through the articles that most interest you. We hope that whether you’ve invested in UNCF’s schools and students for years, or this is the first time you’re considering helping us send students to and through college, you’ll be inspired to make UNCF’s motto, “A mind is a terrible thing to waste”^®, your own. Sincerely,

IMPACT

42 Years and Counting: Anheuser-Busch Foundation Makes UNCF HBCUs and Students a Priority

With passionate desire and fervor of vision, Anheuser-Busch and its foundation have gotten behind UNCF’s efforts, making investing in better futures a priority. Through scholarships, unrestricted donations, event sponsorships and in-kind donations, the industry’s leading brewery best known for brands like Budweiser, Bud Light, Michelob ULTRA and Stella Artois, has helped untold thousands of students of color get to and through college. Over the 42-year partnership, donations to UNCF by Anheuser-Busch and its foundation total more than $4.7 million and counting. The storied history of the two organizations working together began in the late ’70s with a generous donation to help students attend historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs). Since then, the support of UNCF by Anheuser-Busch and its foundation has taken off substantially:

1980: “The Lou Rawls Parade of Stars”^TM

When Anheuser-Busch signed Lou Rawls as a national spokesperson, the corporation asked which charity he wanted Anheuser-Busch to support as part of his contract. Rawls told them, UNCF. While the company had donated generously to UNCF in previous years, the financial investment that came from its support of UNCF’s telethon, “The Lou Rawls Parade of Stars,”^TM went on to raise more than $200 million for UNCF from 1980-2006.

2010: Anheuser-Busch Foundation Scholarship Program

The Anheuser-Busch Foundation began a named scholarship program focusing on college juniors and seniors with a financial need. Donations under the program have now reached more than $1.58 million in scholarships, which have been awarded to nearly 350 students to date. Under the 2019-2020 program, 38 talented students received scholarships valued at $4,000 each.

2013: “The Great Kings and Queens of Africa”

In 2013, Anheuser-Busch donated “The Great Kings and Queens of Africa” art collection to UNCF, a group of paintings valued at more than $1 million, that had been commissioned by Anheuser-Busch in 1975-2000. UNCF distributed pieces from the collection to six UNCF-member colleges and universities: Morehouse, Clark Atlanta, Dillard, Fisk, Xavier and Benedict. “The donation by Anheuser-Busch of ‘The Great Kings and Queens of Africa’ paintings to UNCF-member HBCUs is an important contribution to the artistic and cultural education that has always been a hallmark of the HBCU experience,” said Michael L. Lomax, Ph.D., president and CEO, UNCF. “These works of art help students appreciate both the paintings’ artistry and the stories they tell, while the Anheuser-Busch scholarships continue to keep the promise of the paintings alive by helping outstanding up-and-coming student leaders overcome the financial obstacles that so many of our HBCU students face.”

Today

The current relationship between UNCF and the Anheuser-Busch Foundation remains quite strong. The Anheuser-Busch Foundation continues to support UNCF through scholarship funding, unrestricted donations and by supporting events at UNCF local offices in New York and St. Louis—cities where the company has large numbers of employees. “We are grateful to the Foundation for its steadfast, generous and continued support of our mission,” Lomax explained. “The gifts by Anheuser-Busch and its foundation enable us to serve our institutions and our students not only financially, but through new and inventive experiences which have been mainstays of UNCF’s efforts for many years. We look forward to continuing to do great things with this great partner.”

IMPACT

Dr. Lomax on the ‘State of the HBCU’: “Our Aspiration Is To Lead, Not To Follow”

So the crowd that gathered in the a room near the United States Capitol in March 2019 to hear UNCF president and CEO Dr. Michael L. Lomax report on the “State of the HBCU” knew they would get a candid assessment of where HBCUs stood as UNCF began celebrating its 75^th anniversary, and where the organization was going in the months and years ahead. Dr. Lomax did not disappoint. “During nearly 250 years of slavery, the enslaved were forbidden to learn to read and write,” he told the gathered audience of educators, policy makers and HBCU leaders, “while white institutions like Harvard were developing into elite colleges. Even after the first HBCUs were founded, they languished another century-and-a-half, during which they were under-resourced, undervalued and disparaged—subjected to a gap in resources compared to white institutions, a gap reflected in the Black-White wealth gap in the larger society today.” But “despite obstacles and barriers, assaults and attacks, underinvestment and devaluation,” Lomax said, “the state of HBCUs is resilient.” HBCUs have persisted, producing educational results far beyond what would be predicted based on their size and funding. “HBCUs,” he explained, “represent just 3% of all colleges, but 10% of all Black college students, almost 20% of all Black college graduates and 25% of all graduates in the crucial and highly valued STEM disciplines of science, technology, engineering and mathematics.” And now, after 75 years of UNCF resilience and persistence, “Our aspiration is to lead, not to follow.” Citing what HBCUs contribute to local, state and national economies—including 50,000 college graduates every year and almost $15 billion in economic impact—he called on the federal government to invest in increased student aid for low-income students; increased funding for HBCU operations; $1 billion in HBCU infrastructure; and fairness in accreditation practices. “Since our founding in 1944, UNCF has had two major constituent groups—our historically Black colleges and universities and our students,” he concluded. “We are more determined and more committed than ever, believing as we do, in the power of our cause and our shared belief that ‘a mind is a terrible thing to waste,’^® but a wonderful thing to invest in.” Following his address, major federal policy ideas have seen significant movement in Congress and beyond. Major presidential campaigns have embraced Dr. Lomax’s call to help underserved students by doubling the Pell Grant award for those who need it the most. And both the United States House and Senate have acted on top priority legislation for HBCUs—increasing necessary resources for our institutions and their students.

IMPACT

A Legacy of Education: Herbert Horner—From the “Greatest Generation” to Today’s HBCU Students

Economic hardship was severe in rural North Carolina in the 1920s, so Johnnie Seals was sent with her sisters to live with grandparents in Washington, DC. She was an excellent student who aspired to a college education, so she returned to her home state and enrolled in Shaw University, the first HBCU in the south (which would later become a founding member institution of UNCF). After her freshman year of college, World War II broke out, and Johnnie Seals ended her college journey to return to Washington to support the war effort working for the United States War Department (now called the U.S. Department of Defense). She transferred to the Veterans Administration (the VA, now called the Department of Veterans Affairs), whose mission, in Abraham Lincoln’s words, was “to care for him who shall have borne the battle and for his widow, and his orphan.” She served at the VA for 35 years, during which time she married Herbert Horner and had a son, Herbert Horner, Jr. Like his mother before, Herbert Horner, Jr., enrolled in an HBCU, UNCF-member Morehouse College, only to leave college early to follow in his father’s footsteps as a personal assistant to high-ranking Washington officials such as former Secretary of the Treasury James A. Baker and Dan Snyder, former owner of the Washington Redskins National Football League team.   And, like his mother’s college dreams, Herbert Horner, Jr.’s HBCU educational aspirations had been deferred—but far from forgotten. The junior Horner included in his estate plan a gift of $205,411 to UNCF to be awarded as scholarships in the name of his mother to HBCU students. Thanks to his gift, 199 students at nine UNCF-member institutions were able to get the college education that had been lost to the Horners. Candyce White, a student at the Morehouse School of Religion, was one of the deserving, talented recipients. “This UNCF scholarship has made a difference,” she said. The scholarship is a “tremendous blessing because it helps supplement tuition and the cost of living. I am so thankful and appreciative, and I will never forget the lifeline that this scholarship has given me.” From the greatest generation to the current span of HBCU students, mother Johnnie Lester Seals Horner and son Herbert Horner, Jr., have left a long-sought-after legacy of education—a gift of impact to UNCF-supported students.

IMPACT

75 Years of Schools, Students and Stewardship: UNCF Celebrates its Diamond Anniversary with a Gala in Washington, DC

Dignitaries and celebrities, politicians and students, those with a long history of support and those new to the game—all gathered to celebrate the accomplishments of UNCF’s long service to students of color, historically Black colleges and universities and the United States. Their charge? To recognize not only the United Negro College Fund and its national impact, but those that have paved the way for more than 500,000 students who’ve earned college degrees during UNCF’s 75 years. With history so deep, UNCF took time to honor some of the integral and long-standing organizational donors during the event, bringing both donors and currently supported students to the stage to help tell their stories.

JPMorgan Chase

Winthrop Aldrich, chairman of Chase National Bank, was a member of the mobilizing board for the first UNCF Capital Campaign in 1944. UNCF’s connection with what is now JPMorgan Chase dates back to Chase National Bank, with bank employees raising money around “The Lou Rawls Parade of Stars”^TM telethon. JPMorgan Chase currently runs a very impressive UNCF program staffed internally and funded by the Chase Foundation, called The Fellowship Initiative, out of three cities: Chicago, Los Angeles and New York. It was launched in 2010 in New York, and enrolls young men of color in a comprehensive, hands-on enrichment program that includes academic, social and emotional support to help them achieve personal and professional success.

ExxonMobil

UNCF was established in 1944, and Standard Oil (now ExxonMobil) generously donated $16,000 to UNCF to help found the organization—equivalent to $228,393 today. John D. Rockefeller, Jr., Standard Oil’s chairman, publicly endorsed UNCF and personally wrote letters to other wealthy individuals asking for support. In 1948, Rockefeller further provided UNCF $70,000 in Standard Oil stock, which enabled the fledgling organization to purchase its first headquarters. A few year later, Rockefeller again donated cash to UNCF, this time $5 million in support of its first capital campaign. During his lifetime, John D. Rockefeller, Jr.’s contributions to UNCF totaled more than $6 million. In 2009, ExxonMobil’s support was crucial to issuing a challenge grant that created UNCF’s on-going Campaign for Emergency Student Aid (CESA), which provides final-year undergraduate students at UNCF-member HBCUs with the funds they need to complete their education. Since ExxonMobil’s initial challenge grant, more than $30 million has been raised for more than 13,000 CESA scholarships averaging $2,500 each.

Coca-Cola

For 35 years, Coca-Cola has been a presenting sponsor of UNCF’s Atlanta Mayor’s Masked Ball. And, since 2006, Coca-Cola has been a sponsor of the UNCF Coca-Cola First Generation Scholarship Program, helping more than 600 students go to and through college, and join the ranks of successful careered Americans. As the night’s celebration wrapped up, the impressive donor audience was recognized by Dr. Michael L. Lomax, UNCF’s president and CEO. “We are so pleased to have this impressive group of donors gathered tonight. Their legacies live on through the students who have earned their college degrees thanks to their generosity over the years,” he said. Schools, students and stewardship—all keys to the longevity of an organization whose history has impacted a nation and will continue to do so for years to come. Through 75 years of service and support, UNCF’s mission remains a critical part of our nation’s ability to be competitive, as diversity is truly our national strength. Long-term friends and donors make it possible to mark major milestones like 75 years, but student success is the ultimate dividend paid to all Americans that every one of us can celebrate.

SCHOLAR PARTICIPANTS AT GALA

RAY CHARLES Brenika Ashe Beltinor Bethune Cookman University, 2019 EXXONMOBIL Imani Holman Virginia Union University CHASE Amikka Smith Burl JPMorgan Chase/UNCF scholar Bennett College for Women, 2009 Graduate Communications Director for Wayne County, Michigan WELLS FARGO Scholars Cierra and Imani Graham Bennett College Graduates COCA-COLA DuJuan Morris Morehouse College Graduate Current Graduate Student at Clark Atlanta University UNCF/Coca-Cola First Generation Scholar FUND II FOUNDATION Soinkne Morant Xavier University

IMPACT

Why UNCF Matters Now More than Ever

The organization continues its tradition of nonpartisan advocacy for the country’s HBCUs, for first-generation, low-income African American students pursuing college degrees and for K-12 education reform despite political change. Providing a quality education for all Americans is a bipartisan cause, especially when it comes to improving the lives of students who lack the resources and guidance that make a quality education accessible in the face of those who question the need. UNCF has long been on the frontlines of progress, especially when it comes to government policies affecting our students. For example, it provides lawmakers with necessary information to help them make smart decisions about UNCF’s students and member HBCUs. Foreseeing ways in which a pending budget proposal could leave students in need, UNCF issued a report to help the new Trump administration understand how that proposal could affect HBCUs and their students: “UNCF will support policies that improve the college readiness of African American students; to provide early and personalized college advising that includes financial aid information; that simplify and streamline the federal student aid process; and other efforts that help ensure that students obtain the postsecondary education and workforce skills they need to be successful in today’s economy.” UNCF regularly puts those words to action. During 2018, UNCF worked with a bipartisan coalition with U.S. Rep. Ted Budd (R-NC), U.S. Rep. Alma Adams (D-NC) and U.S. Rep. Bobby Scott (D-VA) and with the U.S. Department of Education and Trump administration to acquire financial relief for institutions that were deeply affected by the economic downturn in 2008 and by the Parent Plus Loan crisis. The U.S. Department of Education announced the names of the eight private HBCUs that were first significantly and positively impacted by the “deferment authority” of the HBCU Capital Finance Program. The organization pointed out the ways in which these factors placed a financial burden on its member institutions. It worked with bipartisan partners to place language enabling the secretary of education to grant loan deferment with a $10 million appropriation added to the FY 2018 Omnibus Appropriations Law, which President Trump signed into law in March 2018. In addition to deferments made for future fiscal years, the awarded institutions were also refunded by the federal government for the payments they had already made during this current fiscal year.  Those payments were some of the largest donations received by the eight institutions that year and they significantly improved their financial standing. In September 2018, the U.S. Congress passed the law funding the Department of Education for FY 2019. This law provided increased funding and flexibility for HBCUs and for low-income, first-generation college students. Thanks to UNCF’s efforts, it included language to keep the government funded which authorized these budget increases:

• Strengthening HBCUs: $282.42 million ($2.796 million above FY2018 enacted level)
• HBCU Capital Financing Program: $40.484 million with $20 million specifically to defer loans ($10 million above FY2018 enacted level)
• Public Service Loan Forgiveness: $350 million set aside for students to award student loan forgiveness and $2.3 million set aside for outreach efforts

Because the U.S. Department of Education was open for business, and not subjected to the government shutdown like other departments, HBCUs were able to access that funding without missing a beat and continued providing high-value services to their students. In light of these funding increases, UNCF President and CEO Dr. Michael L. Lomax said, “We are thrilled with this appropriations outcome, which is the second consecutive year we have seen significant increases to the programs we prioritize. We have worked tirelessly with this Congress and Administration to emphasize the needs of HBCUs and the low-income, first-generation college students we serve. The federal support our institutions and students receive is integral to ensuring each student’s fair opportunity to achieve his or her dreams to get to and through college.” Victories such as these serve as a significant reminder that striving to enact positive change is completely possible and practical. They also demonstrate UNCF has a vital role to play in our country based on today’s political changes.

INNOVATE

A Scholarships Scoop: Three New Named Scholarship Programs Add Power to Purpose

That student support comes through more than 400 scholarships, internships, fellowships and other related academic and mentoring programs that UNCF has created with the help of thousands of donors. Research has shown that UNCF scholarship recipients have an average graduation rate of 70%, almost double the average rate for all African American students and significantly higher than the rate for students of all races and ethnicities. And, more than 7,200 students each year receive scholarships from UNCF, which are used at more than 1,100 colleges and universities across the United States, including nearly all 100-plus HBCUs. Those impressive statistics notwithstanding, much more remains to be done:  only one out of 10 students who apply for scholarship assistance from UNCF are able to be funded. With a need as great as that, any new funding for scholarships is vital. And, in 2018, UNCF landed three new well-funded programs to help more students of color earn their college credentials.

Boulé Foundation Scholarship

How can an organization like the Boulé Foundation, founded through the work of the historic Sigma Pi Phi Fraternity, carry on a commitment to educating new generations of black leaders, supporting others working to protect and advance the civil rights of Black citizens and improving the quality of life for Black people? One answer jumps out:  By helping African American and other students of color get the college education that they deserve and that today’s economy demands. And, by extending that helping hand through the new Boulé Foundation Scholarship. The new program awards $4,000 merit-based, renewable scholarships to rising college freshmen. The program will conclude in 2029 with an expected total of 84 students awarded.

Panda Cares UNCF Scholars Program

Food diversity often brings an awareness that people from all backgrounds are part of our national fabric. Delicious dishes from national restauranteur Panda Express not only make the U.S. richer for its unique spin on Asian cuisine, but the yen Americans have for great Chinese meals helps The Panda Cares Foundation invest in education. Panda Cares is the philanthropic arm of Panda Restaurant Group, and its mission is to assist with health and education in communities that have Panda Express restaurants. In June 2018, Panda Cares partnered with UNCF to form the Panda Cares UNCF Scholars Program, worth approximately $5.14 million. The foundation expanded its mission to include higher education and launch its support of UNCF. The program’s $2,500-per-year scholarship feeds students’ academic success, offers professional development services and helps students enter their chosen career field. The partnership provides 400 students annually with scholarships, support and career navigation services.

Frederick Douglass Bicentennial Scholarship

One of the men recognized as a pioneer for African American rights is the legendary Frederick Douglass, an author, abolitionist, statesman and escaped slave. To honor and commemorate the 2018 bicentennial of the birth of Frederick Douglass, a scholarship program was established in support of students attending accredited HBCUs nationwide. The Frederick Douglass Bicentennial Scholarship Program was established by Tony Signore, whose knowledge, respect and deep admiration for Douglass was instilled in him more than 35 years ago by the Jesuits at Fordham University. To honor Douglass, the Signore family designed and funded the 20-year program to recognize the historic leader. “It’s an incredible honor and privilege for our family to celebrate the life of a true American hero,” said Signore, founder and chairman of the Frederick Douglass Bicentennial Scholarship. “On the 200th anniversary of his birth, it is with great reverence that we reflect upon the legacy of a great man and leader, who had such a profound impact on our nation’s history. We also understand the importance and responsibility of supporting HBCU scholars who demonstrate their passion for education.” New and unique scholarship programs like these three help us all answer the call for workers that can thrive in a 21st century job market and economy. There was a time when a high school diploma and a strong work ethic were enough to qualify for the kinds of jobs that could support families and thriving communities. Not anymore. Today, however, the best-paying and fastest growing jobs and career paths require at least a college degree. For the students who are awarded a UNCF scholarship, the money is a down payment toward major success. New programs like these are an investment in better futures for Black students and, through their success, for all of us. Graduating students are the return on that investment. They are our dividends.

INNOVATE

Making a Path for STEM: The Fund II Foundation Continues to Invest in Talented Students

Thus, in 2016, Fund II Foundation and UNCF collaborated to jumpstart and improve low undergraduate graduation rates of minority STEM students. With a $48 million grant to UNCF, the UNCF STEM Scholars Program was created, focusing on building a robust pipeline of African American students well-prepared for careers in the STEM industries. The program provides scholarships to enable students to focus on studying without worrying about paying for college; gives extracurricular education, tutoring support and mentorship opportunities; and opens the door to corporate internships that students might not otherwise be able to find. Now in its third year, the program has selected 300 highly motivated and academically talented African American high school students who are pursuing a STEM major in college and a STEM career. These students are advancing their educations thanks to the generosity of the Fund II Foundation. An example of the talented students who benefit from the UNCF STEM Scholars Program is Soinkne Morant, a sophomore at Xavier University of Louisiana. Soinkne was recognized by UNCF at its 2019 National Annual Gala in Washington, DC, for her academic achievements. In front of a large audience, which included Fund II Foundation guests of honor, Smith and Wilson, Soinkne shared how her close network of peers within the UNCF STEM Scholars Program community and the program’s support services have helped her successfully navigate personal challenges during her first two years of school. And, with the benefit of that crucial support, Soinkne excelled in her courses and will graduate one year early with plans to attend medical school. Thanks to the Fund II Foundation, students like Soinkne are an investment in better futures for us all.

INNOVATE

UNCF K-12 Advocacy, working to ensure A Seat at the Table

The report, authored by the UNCF Frederick D. Patterson Research Institute, is the latest in a research report series that studies the current state of K-12 education. We’ve all heard the saying “If you’re not at the table, you’re on the menu”—suggesting that if you’re not represented during the decision-making process, you’re in a vulnerable position and are at great risk of being left out of critical decisions and long-term outcomes. Because little research includes minority youth voices about education reform, this study examines the perspectives of low-income African American youth from select cities throughout the nation. Key findings in A Seat at the Table include:

• Slightly more than one-third of African American youth felt race may limit their opportunities in life.
• Nearly half of youth reported being placed in detention at some point in their education.
• 35% of African American youth indicated that having more engaging teachers would improve their high schools.

The report also outlines key recommendations for policymakers and school administrators which include reducing barriers to college attendance; address widespread student discipline issues that create unequal opportunities to learn; challenge the deficit narrative about educational aspirations of low-income African American youth; and improve school-based practices and partnerships to increase African American student achievement. Parallel to the report’s release, the, K-12 Advocacy team also hosted an UNCF Education Summit. The event served as a face-to-face discussion point for the student perspective on education, a call to action on P-16 issues and a platform for engagement and exploration of the role of African American voices—specifically HBCUs—in education reform efforts. The summit brought together a distinct group of African American leaders, advocates and K-12 education reformers, including Jamar McNeeley of Inspire NOLA, Mendell Gringer of Campaign for School Equity, Erika Harrell, parent advocate, and Khalia Murray, current elementary classroom teacher—all with the mission to make the “getting to” part of the college journey all that much more possible.

INNOVATE

Changing of the Guard: Learning and Leading A New Group of Presidents Taking Over UNCF-Member HBCUs

Many of the younger presidents see their youth as an advantage to on-campus leadership, yet still believe it’s critical to continue to receive the mentorship and counsel from the seasoned UNCF-member presidents. Dr. A. Zachary Faison, Jr., the 39-year-old president of Edward Waters College in Florida, says being closer to his students’ age gives him at least one benefit that many of his counterparts haven’t been able to enjoy. “As a millennial born in the 1980s, my generation—and now the post-millennials that are our current students—are largely de­fined by a desire to ‘be heard’ and feel ‘understood’ in terms of their expectations from the collegiate experience,” said Dr. Faison. “With that said, I do believe that new and innovative delivery and implementation models being offered by new, young presidents to support student success can prove to be highly effective in translating to greater student retention and enrollment outcomes,” Dr. Faison added. Many of the new group of younger presidents are taking the helm of UNCF HBCUs after their predecessors served for a long tenure. When a president serves a long-term, they often become the institution, making a transition to a new leader is sometimes difficult. However, this has not been the experience of Dr. Dwaun J. Warmack, president of Claflin University. Dr. Warmack, another one of the new younger leaders, says that he connects with seasoned presidents to help address issues at Claflin, and the more seasoned presidents are invested in his growth as a higher education professional. Prior to accepting calls from the firm tasked with the presidential search, Dr. Warmack did his homework on the university. He learned more about Dr. Henry Tisdale, who served as president at Claflin for 25 years. Dr. Warmack was familiar with Dr. Tisdale, but not did not have a full understanding until he did research. “I was impressed. I thought he had done an amazing job over 25 years of transforming Claflin. As the search firm said to me, they think that I would be a good person to continue that legacy on,” Warmack said. In his previous role as president of Harris-Stowe State University, Dr. Warmack centered his role around a quote that he lives by: “Students don’t know you care, until you show you care.” He was actively involved in making sure that students felt included in decisions of the campus. “Students spend over 70% of their time outside the classroom, and we make it a priority to ensure they are actively engaged on campus,” he said. “Including students in the decision-making process ensures their buy-in and shared governance is at the forefront. From decisions related to homecoming, commencement speakers and institutional budget discussions, I make sure students are included in the process.” Dr. Warmack acknowledges that the institution’s progress and future rests on the past accomplishments set forth by experienced presidential predecessors. “With that being said,” he said, “I have been fortunate to develop strategic strategies that integrates the past, embraces the relevant present and soars towards the future.” And, as these two new UNCF presidents exemplify, your impact is only as good as those who benefit from your growth as a leader. With a new growing group of younger UNCF-member presidents taking the helm of its HBCUs, that impact will continue and deepen for years to come because while they are leading, they are still open to learning and growing themselves—and making an important impact for our students.

INSPIRE

#STANDWITHBENNETT and Deliver: Strength Through Numbers Saved Bennett College When it was Most Needed

During that meeting, Dawkins informed UNCF President and CEO Dr. Michael L. Lomax, Vice President of Research and Member Engagement Dr. Brian Bridges and Vice President of Public Policy and Government Affairs Lodriguez Murray that her institution faced a looming deadline—just about a year away—to fix a set of financial and accreditation issues to be solved or face possible closure. Working with President Dawkins, UNCF’s leadership devised a plan to cure all she laid bare that day, starting with the financial piece which directly tied to the federal HBCU Capital Financing program. Years before her tenure, Bennett College accessed a loan from the U.S. Department of Education, and that loan was now causing financial stress for the institution. Working as a team, UNCF and Bennett College contacted and worked with U.S. Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos and several members of Congress, including Rep. Ted Budd (R-NC) and Rep. Alma Adams (D-NC), to create a first-of-its-kind deferment authority to provide relief for the historic women’s college in North Carolina. That authority didn’t just benefit Bennett College; it impacted 12 other private HBCUs with a similar need. With a loan deferment secured, UNCF then turned its attention to accreditation issues that, despite the North Carolina college’s best efforts, the HBCU couldn’t solve alone. Bennett had corrected all but one issue—fundraising—and asked for UNCF’s expertise and guidance. Thus, the #STANDWITHBENNETT campaign was born. In order to overcome its accreditation issue entirely, the college needed to prove that it had a solid cash reserve that was over $5 million. The college had some success generating funds to boost its reserves, but the early February 2019 accreditation deadline drew near quickly. Thanks to UNCF’s nationwide assistance and large, visible platform, the college received more than $8 million in donations in a little over a month. Aiding Bennett College wasn’t just a responsible thing to do, but more importantly, it was the right thing to do. HBCUs are an essential part of the American educational and economic infrastructure of the United States. So, preserving this member institution’s legacy wasn’t just important—it was vital. Vital to the community-at-large because of its $36 million in annual economic impact. Vital to the faculty and staff that worked tirelessly to enable future generations through education. And, vital to the young women of color who chose the storied institution for its transformative liberal arts programs in a nurturing environment. So, despite the trials, Bennett College remains accredited and open for business, a testament to success. The impact of such a win cannot be understated: HBCUs matter. UNCF matters. And together, the united front stood and delivered on what UNCF’s promise is to all its member colleges and universities—combined strength through numbers makes us all stronger.

INSPIRE

More Women Presidents Leading Member HBCUs

In 1904, Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune founded Bethune Cookman College in Daytona Beach, FL, and in April 1944, she was one of the co-founders of UNCF. Dr. Bethune laid the cornerstone that today’s female HBCU leaders stand on, paving the way for women to lead HBCUs across the United States. Yet, Dr. Bethune’s shining example aside, HBCUs have often been led by men. But that is changing. Even though the number of women HBCU presidents is still lower compared to men, there has been an increase recently. And as they take the helm of these institutions, many of them are praised for creating new partnerships or wrangling financially troubled institutions to push them to success. “In an industry such as higher education that has been male-dominated for many years, it’s critically important to acknowledge diversity and the accomplishments of women, more specifically women of color,” says Michael L. Lomax, Ph.D., UNCF President and CEO. “They work hard each and every day to improve educational outcomes for students.” Additionally, many of these women leaders are breaking barriers, serving as their institutions’ first female president. In 2015, Dr. Colette Pierce Burnette became the first female president of Huston-Tillotson University. In 2017, Dr. Roslyn Clark Artis became the first female president of Benedict College, and Dr. Cynthia Warrick became the first female president of Stillman College. Under Dr. Burnette’s leadership, Huston-Tillotson was awarded a $1 million grant from UNCF in partnership with the Lilly Endowment as part of the UNCF^® Career Pathways Initiative. With the grant, Huston-Tillotson will be able to provide better resources for students, from internships and mentorships to development of better curriculum. “I work very hard as an administrator to create an environment where students have a voice, and we don’t always get it right,” Pierce Burnette says. “This is a safe space in that students have a voice to tell you when you’re not getting it right.” Dr. Artis has been praised by Benedict College’s Board of Trustees for the tremendous progress the institution has made under her leadership. She has launched bold initiatives to position Benedict as a competitive institution where transformative learning, innovation and a commitment to community all merge. Dr. Artis has reduced tuition costs, increased enrollment and developed the first master’s of business administration program at the college, in which its 2,200 students can major in subjects ranging from cyber security to sports management. Benedict is also among grantees of the Lily Endowment gift, the UNCF^® Career Pathways Initiative. “We want to provide learning experiences that prepare students to enter the modern workforce and global marketplace,” Artis says. Dr. Warrick raised roughly $2 million through alumni outreach in March 2017—impressively done during her transition from interim president to president, no less—to cover debt and summer operating expenses and boost recruiting efforts. She has also been instrumental in securing partnerships to ensure opportunities for Stillman students are increased. “Really open the campus to the community at large to participate and support our students and our academic programs and even the use of our facilities,” says Dr. Warrick. Under Dr. Warrick’s leadership, Stillman has been able overcome accreditation issues and improve enrollment, a credit to her commitment to connect Stillman to the local community. And, with 37 member HBCUs, here’s a list of the great women presidents at UNCF-member institutions for 2018 to 2019:

• Roslyn Clark Artis, Benedict College
• Phyllis Worthy Dawkins, Bennett College
• Colette Pierce Burnette, Huston-Tillotson University
• Andrea Lewis Miller, LeMoyne-Owen College
• Paulette R. Dillard, Shaw University
• Mary Schmidt Campbell, Spelman College
• Cynthia Warrick, Stillman College
• Beverly Wade Hogan, Tougaloo College
• Lily D. McNair, Tuskegee University

UNCF salutes all of the women presidents for breaking barriers at UNCF-member institutions and their commitment to advancing black higher education. Their stories, just like the HBCUs they lead, enable better futures for us all.

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Senator Doug Jones: A Friend, Champion and Hero of HBCUs

Sen. Jones knows his supporters trust him to get things that matter to them done in Washington. Since his election in December 2017, Sen. Jones has worked tirelessly to support the people who got him elected. He’s been a staunch advocate for minorities in Alabama and for historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). During his first year in office, Sen. Jones supported federal budget increases for HBCU-specific programs totaling more than $100 million (FY18 and FY19). He advocated for the passage of a loan deferment authority for the HBCU Capital Financing Program and, most courageous of all, he stood before his colleagues on the U.S. Senate floor and spoke about the value of HBCUs, their legacy and their importance. It’s no wonder the people of Alabama celebrate Sen. Jones. As heroes often do, he backs his words up with action. He has shown time and again that the HBCU, Black, Hispanic and other communities can depend on him to be their voice. He fearlessly navigates the partisan divide to secure the best possible outcomes for his constituency and others—no thanks needed. It’s all in a day’s work for a hero like Sen. Doug Jones.

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A “Moses” Among HBCU Leaders: Dr. Billy C. Hawkins

Hawkins has worked in education for 36 years, beginning his successful career as a teacher in the Lansing, MI, Public Schools System. His passion for teaching led him to the field of higher education where he served in various administrative roles at Mississippi Valley State, Saint Paul’s College, Ferris State University and State University of New York at Morrisville College. On Jan. 1, 2008, Hawkins started his term at Talladega College, rejuvenating the venerable institution piece by piece. Since his arrival, student enrollment has increased more than 70%, the entire physical plant has been upgraded and one classroom building has been renovated, restored and reopened. Successively, three dormitories were refurbished, a new police station was built, a $4.5 million rehabilitation/restoration of Foster Hall Dormitory began, finances have been restructured and stabilized, and new academic programs have been added. He successfully guided the institution through a 10-year SACS accreditation. And, under his term, Talladega has been reinstated to the National Athletic intercollegiate Association (NAIA), winning three national championships in men’s and women’s basketball.   During 2008, Dr. Hawkins implemented rigorous plans for renovation and growth at Talladega. As a result of his vision, enrollment doubled from just over 300 students to 601 students in a single semester, athletic programs were reinstated for the first time in 10 years, and major campus beautification projects were undertaken. Talladega has enjoyed record-high enrollment in both the 2018-2019 and 2019-2020 academic years. The college currently has 1,230 students and is listed among the Princeton Review’s best colleges in the Southeast and U.S. News and World Report’s most innovative colleges. The college continues to expand its mission and reach, recently launching its first-ever graduate program—an online master of science degree in computer information systems. Talladega’s campus is undergoing a major physical transformation. A 45,000-square-foot, state-of-the-art residence hall opened in 2019. In 2020, two new facilities will open: a new state-of-the-art student center and the Dr. William R. Harvey Museum of Art, which will house six critically-acclaimed Hale Woodruff murals, including the renowned Amistad Murals. To construct the museum for Woodruff’s murals, which are valued at $50 million, Hawkins secured Talladega’s largest-ever financial gift, a $1 million donation from alumnus Dr. William R. Harvey. Hawkins also secured a $1.5 million contribution from Alabama Gov. Kay Ivey and the state of Alabama. While he’s juggernauting ahead as the Talladega College President and the Chair of the UNCF Members, Hawkins continues to juggle many other priorities quite successfully. He was appointed to serve on the Historically Black Colleges and Universities Capital Financing Advisory Board by former U.S. Secretary of Education Rod Page. He is also a current member of the NAIA President’s Council. Hawkins is the recipient of numerous honors and awards. Most recently in 2011, he was a recipient of the “Ultimate 50 Who’s Who of Birmingham” Award. He received the Omega Century Award of Excellence in Education from the National Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. He also received the National Associate of Colored Women’s Clubs, Inc., Achievement Award and the Texas Alliance of Black School Educators Leadership Award. Hawkins was inducted into the Kent City Schools Hall of Fame in both 2004 and in 2007. And, Hawkins is a proud member of Omega Psi Phi Fraternity, Inc. As an energetic mover and shaker, Hawkins uses his years of experience to strengthen UNCF’s 37 member institutions as the new Chair of the Members. His leadership is making a difference for all of UNCF by helping to develop opportunities for all members in the areas of accreditation, financial management and institutional advancement. His experience and talents, much like the biblical figure of Moses, are helping to transform UNCF to ensure better futures for all.

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“My Friends, My Friends”: Oswald P. Bronson, a Beacon of Light at Bethune-Cookman

In 1950, he earned his bachelor of science degree in social science from Bethune-Cookman College (now University) in Daytona Beach, FL. He completed studies for a bachelor of divinity degree at Gammon Theological Seminary (now part of UNCF's Interdenominational Theological Center, or ITC) in Atlanta, GA, in 1959. In 1965, he then earned a doctor of philosophy degree in religious and higher education from Northwestern University in Evanston, IL. Dr. Bronson began his career in academia by serving as a lecturer and teacher in numerous mission schools, clinics, pastoral institutes and leadership training schools. He advanced from director of field education at the Interdenominational Theological Center (ITC) in 1964 to becoming vice president in 1966. Dr. Bronson ended his ITC tenure as president in 1975. While serving at ITC, he helped expand the number of denominational affiliations the seminary houses as part of its mission to foster ecumenical fellowship. After completing his time at ITC, in 1975, Dr. Bronson began an appointment as the fourth president of his alma mater, Bethune-Cookman University, a position he held for 29 years. Dr. Bronson, like the university’s founder Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, wielded innate diplomacy, persuasive skills and canny collaboration to advance the institution and ensure more African American students had access to quality education. Under his leadership, the university's enrollment grew from 1,520 students to 2,794, the endowment increased from $1 million to $28 million, and the operations budget went from $6.2 million to $51.4 million. Major fields of study at the institution increased from 12 to 37. Dr. Bronson spearheaded investments in faculty development, student achievement and retention. The physical appearance of the campus improved with 15 new buildings—most notably, the Mary McLeod Bethune Performing Arts Center. After Dr. Bronson's retirement he was sought out by Edward Waters College in Jacksonville, FL, as its interim president where he served from 2005-2007. During his tenure at Edward Waters, he restored trust and increased academic integrity to ensure the institution's continued growth, securing nearly $6.4 million in federal grants and re-engaging stakeholders of the college. These actions led to him being deemed a "Turnaround President." Dr. Bronson was on the forefront of civic engagement throughout his entire life. As a leader who espoused the values of Dr. Bethune, he marched with Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., and championed causes for equality and justice. Much of his life’s work is memorialized in the book, Chief Servant Leader: The Life and Leadership of Dr. Oswald P. Bronson, Sr., President of Bethune Cookman. Dr. Bronson received numerous distinguished awards and honors. Together with his wife, Helen Carolyn Williams Bronson, they impacted the lives of thousands of people in the communities in which they lived and served throughout the country. Dr. Bronson was regarded as a friend because he embraced everyone with whom he came in contact as "friends." In fact, a signature phrase in his formal and informal greeting was "my friends, my friends." And, at the very mention of those words, people became impassioned with gratitude for the authenticity of his delivery. Dr. Bronson, just like many of the great UNCF HBCU leaders, is now missed by all those friends and the those whose lives he touched.

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UNCF HBCU ‘Funding Evangelists’ Secure More Than $100 Million for HBCUs

And, so in a single calendar year, 2018, thanks in large part to UNCF’s dedicated team of HBCU funding evangelists—its government affairs department—HBCUs across the United States received funding increases from Congress signed into law by the president of more than $100 million due to the late passage of fiscal year (FY) 2018 spending bills. FY2018 was funded in March of 2018, and FY2019 was funded in September 2018. “We had to tell it like it is. Our HBCUs needed more funding. Period. And, though, we had little time to get this done because of the two funding cycles colliding, we were diligent and pressed our points with staffers and members of Congress on both sides,” said Lodriguez V. Murray, senior vice president, UNCF Public Policy and Government Affairs. “Lodriguez and his team are our ‘ministers’ to Capitol Hill,” said Dr. Michael L. Lomax, UNCF’s president and CEO. “They bring the good news HBCU message the Hill desperately needs to hear about our colleges and universities.” Pressing an advantage during the relatively short back-to-back funding cycles, UNCF met with U.S. Representatives, U.S Senators and their staffs to (1) prioritize the capital needs of HBCUs and (2) the need to better use federal funds to help low-income, first-generation college students finance their education, engaging both Republicans and Democrats in its efforts to win support for HBCUs and their students. Programs such as Title III—which directly impacts students in the science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) disciplines—the Pell Grant, federal work study program and the federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant received increases during 2018 that were greatly needed by many HBCU students. “UNCF focused on building a bipartisan coalition and educating Congress on the value and needs of HBCUs, which led to a 15% increase in overall HBCU-related spending from FY2017,” Murray added. “With continued advocacy efforts focused on HBCUs and the students they serve instead of partisanship, UNCF is now poised to impact higher education in a way that will generate the future workforce and leaders the country needs sooner rather than later.”

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The Enduring Power of Partnership: AKA and UNCF

Throughout the fruitful partnership, AKA presidents have served on the UNCF Board of Directors which, today, is strengthened by Dr. Glenda Baskin Glover, AKA International President. Support for HBCUs is an AKA priority, and AKA and its members have invested in UNCF to date. According to Glover, “Alpha Kappa Alpha’s 111-year history is deeply interwoven into the history of HBCUs, and therefore it is imperative that we continue to invest in these treasured institutions.” To commemorate their longstanding commitment at the start of UNCF’s 75th anniversary, AKA powerfully demonstrated its desire to invest in HBCUs. In partnership with the Educational Advancement Fund, it launched the AKA-HBCU Endowment Fund and pledged to distribute $10 million to 96 accredited institutions over four years. Thirteen of the 32 participating HBCUs are UNCF-member institutions. And during the national “A Mind Is…” Gala, responding to UNCF’s 75th anniversary call to action, AKA pledged $1 million to UNCF, presenting a $1 million check at the national event in Washington, DC. Later in 2019, AKA also raised $1 million to secure fiscal sustainability and success for all HBCUs during its one-day fundraising drive, AKA HBCU Impact Day. The UNCF/AKA partnership reflects UNCF’s iconic motto, “A mind is a terrible thing to waste”^® and AKA’s pledge “to become an indomitable force for good.” Together, UNCF and AKA are increasing investments in HBCUs, ensuring their long-term sustainability and capacity to continue to serve as economic and education engines that power America.

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Volunteering to Make a Difference: Top Ladies of Distinction Lending a Distinctive Touch to Workplace Fundraising

Having its roots grounded in the soil of an UNCF HBCU, however, brought TLOD leadership knocking on UNCF’s door to renew its commitment to the organization in 2017.  Former President Lady Drema Woldman was approached by UNCF’s national development director for workplace initiatives, Mya Dyson and out of that meeting was born a new service option that truly matters: help UNCF throughout the United States carry out its workplace fundraising campaigns. “Top Ladies of Distinction, Inc., is proud to work with UNCF on its workplace initiative,” said Woldman. “Education is the key to success, but it costs. More often than not funds are not there or readily available for our children. Most of us did not have the opportunities that are afforded today.” Workplace fundraising campaigns are on-the-ground operations which require UNCF to be present at local employers’ offices, talk to prospective donors that may be able to support UNCF financially through gifts that are made through their paychecks, and convince the employees that UNCF is worthy of their donation. This seems simple enough, but it’s time consuming and is often only possible with the help of volunteer arms and legs. The solution? More volunteers. And, that’s where a powerful, well-organized partner like TLOD makes a difference. Volunteers are always needed and helpful but having volunteers that hit the ground running who are knowledgeable and highly organized makes their support of UNCF, well, distinct. Dyson explained how the partnership works: “We began the workplace volunteer partnership in 2017 assisting us with rallies, fairs and kick-offs. As it has grown, the TLOD workplace volunteer partnership has provided a tremendous boost to UNCF. In an industry that requires us to attend multiple and simultaneous events, their support on the ground helps us to get in front of more employees to educate them on our mission than we could ever do alone. It also helps us to keep administrative costs low by utilizing volunteers to help us with this important work of raising funds to get students to and through college.” And, while this may sound like a lot of work, Woldman wanted the job. “For TLOD to be given the opportunity to go into places of employment and enlighten others about UNCF's mission and the need to raise funds to assist our future leaders is something that we wanted to be a part of. I think we are a great match for each other because part of our service plan focuses on youth and academic excellence,” she explained. Dyson added that the help of TLOD is more than just a few volunteers added to her ranks. “They are just amazing. We couldn’t be as successful as we are without the Top Ladies of Distinction.” The pay-off? Woldman has high praise for the volunteer work TLOD is doing because, “It is important for our children to know their culture and be taught by and learn alongside others just like them. Attending a UNCF college or university is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity, and the workplace initiative helps make that a reality.”

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Five Fundraisers in Five States Across Two Nights—Fueling UNCF’s Work, Rapid-Fire

The two-day celebration was led by UNCF New Orleans, where host Mayor LaToya Cantrell, a Xavier University graduate and New Orleans’ first female mayor, and nearly 1,000 UNCF supporters filled the Hyatt Regency ballroom to help New Orleans’ own UNCF-member institutions, Dillard and Xavier universities, and UNCF’s 35 other HBCUs. Revelers included celebrities like singer-songwriter-producer Babyface; Morehouse graduate and New Orleans native PJ Morton, also a singer-songwriter-producer; and actor-writer Jonathan Slocumb, a graduate of UNCF HBCU Oakwood University. Masked Award recipients for the event were Morton and New Orleans Saints and New Orleans Pelicans owner Gayle Benson. Up the road in Birmingham, Mayor Randall Woodfin, a Morehouse graduate, welcomed a record-breaking crowd of 1,000 to support the seven UNCF HBCUs close to Birmingham and all of UNCF’s HBCUs. “By giving our students an opportunity to learn, grow and mature at these schools,” said Mayor Woodfin, “we are ensuring that Birmingham’s future is strong.” It wasn’t just cities that are home to UNCF HBCUs that did their part and more in celebrating the 75^th anniversary. UNCF’s Milwaukee Mayor’s Masked Ball was hosted by Mayor Tom Barrett and chaired by Dr. Joan Prince, United States Ambassador Emeritus to the United Nations and vice chancellor at the University of Wisconsin Milwaukee; and Celia J. Shaughnessy, vice president of human resources and chief human resources officer at Ascension Wisconsin. Mayor Eric Garcetti hosted UNCF Los Angeles’s star-studded 8th annual Mayor’s Masked Ball, where the Masked Award was presented to producer Jesse Collins, who has produced high-profile programming like the Grammy^®Awards, BET Awards and Soul Train Awards, as well as our UNCF An Evening of Stars^®. The crowd included celebrities like actors Robert Ri'chard and Pooch Hall, and choreographer, dancer, actor, director and producer Darrin Dewitt Henson. At the Triangle UNCF Mayors’ Masked Ball in Raleigh, Spectacular magazine called the Masked Ball “the area’s premier fundraising gala and major social event.” Knightdale, NC, mayor James Roberson welcomed the crowd, and the mayors of Raleigh, Chapel Hill and Durham appeared via video. Masked Awards were presented to community leaders and activists Eileen and Jim Welch and to Dr. Everett Ward, past president of St. Augustine’s University and prior general president of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity, Inc. Dee McDougal, senior vice president of Pacific Western Bank, served as a co-chair of the event. So what did all the spectacular soirees across the country that weekend add up to? All in all, five elegant, high-profile events yielded nearly $3 million in support for UNCF-member HBCUs. But perhaps the most important number of all? The more than 15,000 students from those five states, and the nearly 50,000 students from across the country, who attend UNCF HBCUs, on their way to graduation and careers of success and service—thanks to two days and five very special UNCF events.