IMPACT

Through UNCF, Pinkney received nearly $200,000 in scholarships for his outstanding character and academic achievements. Beyond the financial help, the organization also provided the Chicago-native with invaluable opportunities and skills to excel after graduation.

Pinkney’s path to UNCF began through a chance encounter at his church. UNCF Chief Operating Officer Early Reese visited the church, where he met Pinkney and introduced him to the organization. After witnessing Reese’s passion for his work at UNCF, Pinkney decided to apply for scholarships through the organization, ultimately receiving nearly 40.

For Pinkney, UNCF provided him a chance to build his legacy and further the impact of the people who shaped his life. His grandfather taught him about the stock market and explained how personal investments could strengthen communities. These lessons contributed to Pinkney’s decision to attend college and pursue finance. He also felt a deep desire to relieve his parents of the financial burden of his education. He recalls saying, “You guys have done so much for me up to this point. I want to be proactive and ensure that I can secure the finances for my education.” UNCF eased that burden, allowing Pinkney to graduate debt-free and earn the distinction of summa cum laude.

Receiving the scholarships from UNCF afforded Pinkney the opportunity to focus more time on developing professionally. He was treasurer/chief financial liaison of the Morehouse chapter of the National Association for the Advancement of Colored People (NAACP) and a member of the Morehouse Investment Club, where he helped manage portfolios for organizations.

UNCF also supported Robert on a personal level throughout his journey. In 2022, Pinkney was asked by UNCF to lead a campus initiative to encourage student voter registration at an event organized in collaboration with the Morehouse NAACP student chapter. Although initially hesitant, Pinkney soon realized that the invitation was a sign that the organization saw potential in him. He recalls thinking, “If I’m being asked to do this, with little experience, the people who’ve invested in me see something that led them to choose me.” The event ultimately set a record in Georgia for the highest student registrations from any college campus. Additionally, Derrick Johnson, chief executive officer (CEO) and president of the national NAACP, visited the student organization.

Currently, Pinkney works as a junior analyst at State Street Bank. He aspires to establish his own hedge fund company in Chicago, using his accumulated resources to create opportunities for people with his background. His ultimate goal is to serve as a catalyst for giving back within his community.

UNCF has had an undeniable impact on Pinkney, and in turn, he has become an evangelist for the organization. He often speaks at events where audiences are moved to donate on the spot, seeing him as living proof of what donations can accomplish. Through his own experience, Pinkney shows how UNCF helps students like him achieve their college dreams and pursue their career ambitions. His story illustrates why the organization is a leader in supporting students attending HBCUs.

As Pinkney puts it, “When the financial burden is no longer looming over your head, it gives you the opportunity to dream so big and jump so high.”