INNOVATE
UNCF Partners with Axim Collaborative and Harvard University to Develop HBCUv
HBCUv will broaden access to education, improve online learning experiences and promote inclusivity for all HBCUs nationwide. Spearheaded by the UNCF Institute for Capacity Building and supported by nine partnering HBCUs, HBCUv seeks to redefine the Black college experience in the digital age.
“We are thrilled to partner with Axim Collaborative and Harvard on the development of HBCUv, as it represents an important leap forward in higher education, empowering HBCUs to harness the power of technology and innovation while ensuring equitable access and inclusivity for all students,” said Ed Smith-Lewis, vice president of strategic partnerships and institutional programs, UNCF.
Axim Collaborative is providing financial support and expertise in blended online education to the initiative. Harvard’s role will focus on developing a robust instructional design framework, establishing a repository of culturally responsive course resources, and leveraging existing knowledge, expertise and digital learning assets.
UNCF, alongside its nine partnering UNCF-member HBCUs—Benedict College, Clark Atlanta University, Johnson C. Smith University, Lane College, Claflin University, Dillard University, Talladega College, Shaw University and Jarvis Christian University—is the driving force in the development of HBCUv. The initiative has garnered support from philanthropic organizations such as Lilly Endowment Inc., Bank of America Charitable Foundation, Citi Foundation, the Bill & Melinda Gates Foundation and Blue Meridian Partners.
HBCUv represents more than just an online platform; it is a learning ecosystem designed to empower students, faculty and institutions to thrive in the digital age. This collaboration is a significant step toward incorporating leading digital technologies into the HBCU education experience, ensuring equitable access and fostering inclusivity.
It is through innovative collaborations like this that UNCF and its partners are continuing to pave the path forward for HBCUs and their students through the use of technology—showing that there’s no better way to light the way to better futures than collaboration and innovation.