How UNCF Builds Strong Minds On and Off the Field
For Lawrence Nalls, III, a junior psychology major at UNCF-member institution Morehouse College, success means excelling in the classroom and on the football field. The student-athlete understands the discipline required to balance early morning football practices, rigorous coursework and campus involvement.
Nalls is preparing for a future where he can provide support to other student-athletes as a sports psychologist, helping students navigate the mental and emotional challenges that often go unseen. Support from UNCF’s Georgia/Kentucky/Tennessee Scholarship has helped make his journey possible.
Lawrence Nalls, III holds up a Coca-Cola UNITED T-shirt. Photos from Lawrence Nalls, III.
The scholarship provided Nalls with more than financial assistance; it gave him the freedom to focus on what matters most: his education, athletic commitments and personal growth. “The scholarship gave me the financial breathing room to stay focused on both my academics and my responsibilities as a student-athlete,” he shared. “It removed a layer of stress that could have easily become a distraction.”
UNCF’s scholarship helped cover essential educational expenses, allowing Nalls to devote more energy to his studies while pursuing opportunities beyond the classroom, including internships, community service and name, image and likeness (NIL) partnerships. Instead of worrying about financial barriers, he has been able to invest in experiences that prepare him for life after graduation.
Choosing Morehouse College felt like a natural path. Inspired by his father, a proud Morehouse alumnus, Lawrence grew up seeing firsthand the values the institution instills in its students. “Seeing him as a successful Morehouse Man gave me a clear vision of the kind of person I wanted to become,” Nalls said. “I knew Morehouse develops Black leaders and shapes its students into strong, disciplined men.”
One experience, in particular, confirmed he had made the right decision. During new student orientation, Nalls was welcomed by upperclassmen who introduced him to the traditions, culture and brotherhood that define the Morehouse experience. “They showed me the ropes and helped me understand what this college can truly shape you into,” he recalled. “That experience shifted my perspective and remains one of the most impactful memories I have from my time at Morehouse.”
In addition to a busy academic course load and athletic commitments, Lawrence Nalls, III makes time to give back to his community. Photo from Lawrence Nalls, III.
Nalls’ passion for psychology is deeply personal. He’s witnessed the need for greater understanding of mental health within communities that are often overlooked. “I chose to major in psychology because of my unique experience as an African American man and an athlete,” he said. “These are two groups whose mental health isn’t always understood by the average therapist.”
His goal is to become a sports psychologist at a major Division I university, where he can connect with athletes on a personal level and provide the support they need to thrive on and off the field. Nalls expects to graduate from Morehouse in May 2027. Then, he plans to earn a master’s degree before working as a sports psychologist.
As he continues his educational journey, Nalls hopes other students choose institutions that encourage both personal and academic growth. “My advice is to pick a place that will best cultivate you as a man or woman and as a student,” he said.
“And go to class,” he added.
Nalls expressed gratitude to the donors whose generosity continues to open doors for students across the country. “To UNCF and the donors, thank you,” he said. “I am eternally grateful to you for believing in me and countless other college students across America. I’m glad an organization like UNCF exists, and I hope it continues helping students like me all across the nation.”
UNCF is proud of our students and alumni who have received scholarships that help them continue their education and graduate. These scholarships are invaluable to students, and UNCF is accepting donations to support students like Lawrence Nalls, III in their academic endeavors.