UNCF Launches the Frederick Douglass Bicentennial Scholarship Program for Students Attending HBCUs

$200,000 in awards eligible to scholars enrolled in public and private four-year HBCUs

In commemoration of the bicentennial of the birth of Frederick Douglass, a scholarship program was launched today in support of students attending accredited historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) nationwide. The program, which recognizes and celebrates one of the most transformative figures in our nation’s history, will be administered and managed by UNCF (United Negro College Fund) for a period of 20 years, through 2039.

The Frederick Douglass Bicentennial Scholarship Program was established by New York City native 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 one of the most important African American figures in our country’s history, the Signore Family designed and funded the program to recognize this historic leader, providing scholarship support to outstanding young women and men. It is the first ever Frederick Douglass scholarship aligned exclusively with accredited, four-year public and private HBCUs across the country.

The program will award a $10,000 scholarship to one exceptional HBCU senior per year who has demonstrated high academic achievement, strong leadership skills, commitment to community service and unmet financial need.

“It’s an incredible honor and privilege for our family to celebrate the life of a true American hero,” said Tony 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.”

Frederick Augustus Washington Bailey, who was born into slavery in Talbot County, Maryland in 1818, became one of the most famous intellectuals of his time. His journey from an enslaved child, separated at birth from his mother, to one of the most articulate orators of the 19th century, was nothing short of extraordinary. At the age of 20, after several failed attempts, he escaped from slavery and arrived in New York City on September 4, 1838, before settling in New Bedford, Massachusetts with his wife, Anna.

The man who became known to the world as “Frederick Douglass” dedicated his life to the abolitionist movement and the equality of all people. In doing so, Douglass went on to become a great writer, orator, publisher, civil rights leader and government official. Douglass wrote three autobiographies, with his first and best-known, Narrative of the Life of Frederick Douglass, an American Slave, published in 1845. It became an immediate best-seller and was circulated throughout the United States and Europe. The Library of Congress named the Narrative one of the “88 Books that Shaped America.”

The father of the abolitionist movement, who advised presidents Abraham Lincoln and Andrew Johnson on the Civil War and black suffrage, respectively, has provided our country with lessons that remain relevant and impactful to this day. Throughout his life, Douglass was steadfast in his commitment to breaking down barriers between the races. His courage, passion, intellect and magnificent written and oratory skills inspired hundreds of the world’s most prominent civil rights activists of the 20th century, as well as pioneers of the women’s rights movement.

“The narrative of Douglass’s life is the foundation upon which many of us owe our path to a quality education,” said Michael L. Lomax, President and CEO, UNCF. “Paying homage to this great pioneer through The Frederick Douglass Bicentennial Scholarship Program is not only admirable but speaks on the responsibility we all have in paving a road for the next generation of leaders.”

Selection Criteria

The inaugural application will open during the 2018-19 academic year, with annual applications thereafter through the 2038-39 academic year. Applicants for the program must meet the following criteria:

1. Be enrolled full-time as a senior at any accredited public or private four-year historically black college or university (HBCU). 
2. Possess a minimum cumulative grade-point average of 3.5 on a 4.0 scale as verified through submission of a current transcript. 
3. Demonstrate a commitment to community service. 
4. Have a demonstrated, unmet financial need as verified by their college or university.

Application Process

Applications are to be submitted online and include:

1. Two letters of recommendation from faculty members on how the applicant reflects the values espoused by Frederick Douglass. 
2. Responses to two essay questions. The first requires the applicant to assess self-awareness, leadership and community involvement. The second will address the impact Frederick Douglass had on society in the 19th century and its relevance today as our nation continues to fight for equality.

The application will be available via UNCF’s website at UNCF.org/FrederickDouglass. All application materials must be received by the applicable deadline.

Program Administration and Selection Process

1. UNCF will administer and manage the program, which includes online applications, applicant relations, awarding and reporting. 
2. UNCF will screen all applications to ensure they are in compliance with the program, then thoroughly review and rank the applicant pool. 
3. UNCF will provide a list of its top 10 finalists to an esteemed panel of judges selected by Signore. The judges include the direct descendants of Frederick Douglass—Nettie Washington Douglass and Kenneth B. Morris, Jr.; senior academic leaders and scholars—Dr. Rochelle Ford and Dr. Benjamin Robinson; and Leon H. Carter, Vice President of ESPN and Founder of the Sports Journalism Institute. 
4. Following a thorough evaluation of the 10 finalists, the five judges will rank their top three finalists and submit their feedback to UNCF. 
5. UNCF will select one program award winner, annually, from the three finalists. Award winners will be provided a $10,000 scholarship during their senior year.

About UNCF 
UNCF (United Negro College Fund) is the nation’s largest and most effective minority education organization. To serve youth, the community and the nation, UNCF supports students’ education and development through scholarships and other programs, strengthens its 37 member colleges and universities, and advocates for the importance of minority education and college readiness. UNCF institutions and other historically black colleges and universities are highly effective, awarding nearly 20 percent of African American baccalaureate degrees. Today, UNCF supports more than 60,000 students at more than 1,100 colleges and universities across the country. Its logo features the UNCF torch of leadership in education and its widely recognized motto, “A mind is a terrible thing to waste.”® Learn more at UNCF.org, or for continuous updates and news, follow UNCF on Twitter at @UNCF.

About Tony Signore 
Tony Signore is the CEO and managing partner at Taylor, a brand counselor and public relations partner to a select portfolio of the world’s leading consumer brands. The measurable results of his innovative approach, bold vision and unique business model were validated through the publication of a Harvard case study titled, “Transformation at Taylor.” His career accomplishments and influence on C-suite executives nationwide earned Signore a SABRE Award, the industry’s highest honor for outstanding individual achievement.

Signore, a graduate of Fordham University, resides in New York City with his wife, Elizabeth. They have three children: Rocco (23), Yvette (22) and Ashley (21).

New Jersey UNCF host 5K Walk for Education Raising Money for HBCUs

September is the month for walks as UNCF (United Negro College Fund) hosts 5K walks for education. Between 300-1,500 community influencers will come together to raise vitally needed funds for deserving area students and the historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) that support them.

“More than ever, students need a college education to be competitive and succeed in today’s global economy,” said Michael L. Lomax, Ph.D., president and CEO of UNCF. “By investing in our students now through events like the UNCF Walk for Education, we are providing them with a path to success that will pay future dividends for them, their families and communities, and for all of us.” Last year’s UNCF-sponsored walks raised more than $2 million.

The details about upcoming UNCF Walk for Education event in Newark NJ are:

The first annual UNCF New Jersey 5K Walk/Run for Education, in partnership with Kat Team Foundation, looks to bring together individuals, family members, friends and co-workers to participate and help raise much-needed funds to help address college-bound students’ financial obstacles so that they are able to get to and through college on September 22 at the Brookdale Park. "Physical and Mental Health and Wellness" is the theme, with activities for children, music, healthy refreshments, friendly competition and information for healthy living at all stages. 

        Run/Walk Day Activities
        Race awards
        Vendor booths
        Food trucks
        Activities for children
        Team photos
        DJ and much more!

Register and find out more information at UNCF.org/NewJerseyWalk 

About UNCF UNCF (the United Negro College Fund) is the nation’s largest and most effective minority education organization. To serve youth, the community and the nation, UNCF supports students’ education and development through scholarships and other programs, supports and strengthens its 37 member colleges and universities, and advocates for the importance of minority education and college readiness. UNCF institutions and other historically black colleges and universities are highly effective, awarding 21 percent of African American baccalaureate degrees. UNCF administers more than 400 programs, including scholarship, internship and fellowship, mentoring, summer enrichment and curriculum and faculty development programs. Today, UNCF supports more than 60,000 students at over 1,100 colleges and universities across the country. Its logo features the UNCF torch of leadership in education and its widely recognized motto, ‟A mind is a terrible thing to waste.”® Learn more at UNCF.org or for continuous updates and news, follow UNCF on Twitter at @UNCF.

Kevin Hart teams with United Negro College Fund to launch a new scholarship program

Kevin hart may only come up to Lebron James' knee caps, but he is not about to let the NBA star box him out of also helping black children attend college. I hope this is just the beginning of more black celebrities PUBLICLY stepping up and helping educate our future. George L. Cook III African American Reports.

Following on his generous $100,000 scholarship gift made in 2015 through UNCF to four deserving college students, actor and comedian Kevin Hart has joined forces with UNCF and KIPP (Knowledge Is Power Program) to help 18 more KIPP students earn a college degree. Through a new UNCF scholarship program launched in partnership with Kevin Hart’s Help From The Hart Charity and KIPP Public Schools, the $600,000 scholarship will provide funding to support KIPP students from eight different cities who are attending 11 historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs).

UNCF is the largest provider of college scholarships for students of color in the U.S., awarding more than $100 million in college scholarships annually to deserving students. The 18 Help From The Hart Charity Scholarship recipients have been selected based on their academic and personal accomplishments and may receive substantive renewable awards based on need.

“The Help From The Hart Charity Scholarship will not only support students, but will also demonstrate support for HBCUs,” said UNCF CEO and President Michael L. Lomax. “Research shows that HBCUs matter, and that HBCU students are having a positive college experience, but they also have an unmet financial need. Together, Kevin and KIPP have made an investment that will have a significant impact. We can’t thank them enough for their support.”

"Education and knowledge are powerful,” said Hart. “I just wanted to do my part in providing opportunities for our future leaders, especially from my Philly hometown, and show support for HBCUs. This is just the beginning; trust me when I tell you there are a lot more kids who want to go to college who don’t have the money to make it happen.”

The 18 students receiving college scholarships are high school graduates who attended KIPP public charter schools in eight different communities: the Arkansas Delta, Atlanta, Baltimore, Chicago, Houston, New Orleans, Philadelphia, and Washington, DC. A recent survey of KIPP alumni across the country showed that the KIPP graduates who attend HBCUs reported a stronger sense of belonging, better mental health, and were more likely to have a mentor than those attending non-HBCUs.

“Nothing brings me greater joy than to see the hard work of these 18 KIPP students recognized by Kevin Hart and UNCF through this generous scholarship program,” said John Fisher, chair of the KIPP Foundation Board of Directors. “Michael Lomax has been a longtime KIPP supporter and friend and a tireless champion for young people. We are incredibly grateful to both UNCF and Kevin Hart for their partnership and support to help our students thrive in college and achieve their dreams.”

Hart’s gift to fund this new scholarship program puts him in line with many other renowned celebrities—like Lou Rawls, Ella Fitzgerald, Clifton Davis, Michael Jackson, Janet Jackson, Anthony Anderson, Beyoncé, Chris Rock, Usher, Pharrell Williams, Ray Charles, John Lennon, Ruby Dee and Ossie Davis who, realizing the value of a quality education, have supported UNCF over the years. “Giving back to build better futures is the name of the game, and we hope that others like Kevin will understand why educational investments are so important, especially now, and step up to help more deserving students,” said Lomax.

Lomax also added, “Over the last decade, UNCF has been building a relationship with the KIPP public school network, and we are so excited that KIPP’s board of directors and Chairman John Fisher are behind this outstanding new venture. There are more than 1,300 KIPPsters currently enrolled at HBCUs, and together, we are bringing resources and shining a spotlight on these students who are doing all they can to get a college education. This unique partnership will help UNCF continue to bridge the gap from high school success to college achievement and enables UNCF to help more students get to and through college.”

Nearly $900k Raised for HBCUs at 2018 UNCF National Gala

Close to $900,000 was raised at the recent UNCF “A Mind Is…” Gala honoring game-changing HBCU alumnus and White House correspondent April Ryan, Tony Award-winning director Kenny Leon and UNCF campaign contributor Oracle Corporation. More than 900 business, civic and education leaders attending the March 8 event. UNCF member-institution presidents, along with UNCF president and CEO Dr. Michael L. Lomax also attended. HBCU alum (Howard University) and “Entertainment Tonight” correspondent, A.J. Calloway served as master of ceremonies.

“HBCUs continue to produce leaders across all professions, including honorees April     Ryan, graduate of Morgan State; and Kenny Leon, graduate of Clark Atlanta,” said Lomax. “These honorees and our students attending HBCUs across the nation help change the narrative about HBCUs and address misperceptions and myths about them.”

The 2018 UNCF “A Mind Is…” Gala continued its tradition of honoring trailblazers for their game-changing education advocacy through partnerships with UNCF and through their own work. This year’s honorees, who through their sacrifices and determination, have led the charge in championing for a quality education for all, include White House correspondent April Ryan, who received the Shirley Chisholm Award for community service. Both Kenny Leon and the Oracle Corporation accepted the UNCF President’s Award.

“We could not be prouder of our partnership with UNCF, which spans more than 20 years,” said Hamidou Dia, senior vice president, Oracle. “During that period of time, we’ve donated over $13 million, sponsored countless interns, hired many students and have supported UNCF’s HBCU Innovation Summit. The foundation that you’ve laid since 1944 is remarkable. I’m sure that I speak for my colleagues at Oracle and beyond in saying that we’ve been the proud recipients of your graduates. They come to the table with new ideas, the courage to speak up, the skills to deliver, the fire to make a difference, and the commitment to reach back and help others. Simply put, you make our organizations and our country better.”

With the support of platinum sponsors Wells Fargo and Delta Air Lines, funds from the event help support UNCF programs and our 37 member institutions— 
colleges and universities that contribute to the regions and communities HBCUS have served for more than 100 years. And in the recent landmark study, HBCUs Make America Strong: The Positive Economic Impact of Historically Black Colleges and Universities--commissioned by UNCF’s Frederick D. Patterson Research Institute--UNCF shows the nation’s HBCUs generate $1.8 billion in economic impact annually; equivalent to a ranking in the top 200 on the Fortune 500 list of America’s largest corporations.

These institutions generate more than134,000 jobs for their local and regional economies—equal to the number of jobs provided by president’s awardee Oracle, one of the nation’s largest private employers.

To view images from the 2018 UNCF “A Mind Is…” Gala, visit: https://www.uncf.org/NewYork 

To stay connected to UNCF throughout the year, please visit: UNCF.org

Follow us on social media @UNCF #UNCF

About UNCF 
UNCF (United Negro College Fund) is the nation’s largest and most effective minority education organization. To serve youth, the community and the nation, UNCF supports students’ education and development through scholarships and other programs, strengthens its 37 member colleges and universities, and advocates for the importance of minority education and college readiness. UNCF institutions and other historically black colleges and universities are highly effective, awarding nearly 20 percent of African American baccalaureate degrees. UNCF awards more than $100 million in scholarships annually and administers more than 400 programs, including scholarship, internship and fellowship, mentoring, summer enrichment, and curriculum and faculty development programs. Today, UNCF supports more than 60,000 students at more than 1,100 colleges and universities across the country. Its logo features the UNCF torch of leadership in education and its widely recognized motto, “A mind is a terrible thing to waste.”® Learn more at UNCF.org, or for continuous updates and news, follow UNCF on Twitter at @UNCF. #AMIGala

UNCF Launches the Hurricane Harvey HBCU Students Relief Fund

Help UNCF provide financial support to the thousands of HBCU (historically black colleges & universities) students in Texas and Louisiana impacted by the effects of Hurricane Harvey. Businesses are closed, perhaps for weeks or months, depriving employees of the paychecks they count on to pay family expenses, including their children’s college tuition. As the community comes together to rebuild, our HBCU students will need help with transportation, replenishing books, clothing and other educational necessities.

“We have all seen the devastation wrought by Hurricane Harvey in an area that is home to thousands of HBCU students,” said Michael L. Lomax, president and CEO of UNCF. “As the floodwaters recede, we know all too well what we will find, the burden falling hardest on those least able to afford it: homes ruined and families forced into temporary shelters. Now more than ever, UNCF needs the community’s help to fill the gap and ensure that these students, our family, remain in school and not lose sight of their future endeavors. Stand with UNCF and ACT NOW.”

How Can You Help?

1.    Visit uncf.org/HarveyRelief or text UNCFNA to 50555 to donate.

2.    Encourage your friends, family and colleagues to pledge their commitment.

3.    Share this message on your social networks to spread the urgency to help our HBCU students. “Restoring the damage done by #HurricaneHarvey will be a long process, but our students need your help right away! Donate now: uncf.org/HarveyRelief.”                                            

Your donation will aid HBCU students through this natural disaster. Restoring the damage done by Harvey will be a long process, but even the smallest contribution can make a larger impact.

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About UNCF 
UNCF (United Negro College Fund) is the nation’s largest and most effective minority education organization. To serve youth, the community and the nation, UNCF supports students’ education and development through scholarships and other programs, strengthens its 37 member colleges and universities, and advocates for the importance of minority education and college readiness. UNCF institutions and other historically black colleges and universities are highly effective, awarding nearly 20 percent of African American baccalaureate degrees. UNCF awards more than $100 million in scholarships annually and administers more than 400 programs, including scholarship, internship and fellowship, mentoring, summer enrichment, and curriculum and faculty development programs. Its logo features the UNCF torch of leadership in education and its widely recognized motto, “A mind is a terrible thing to waste, but a wonderful thing to invest in.”® Today, UNCF supports more than 60,000 students at more than 1,100 colleges and universities. Learn more at UNCF.org or for continuous news and updates, follow UNCF on Twitter @UNCF.

UNCF Sends Letter to White House Regarding 2017 National HBCU Conference Postponement

On August 23, UNCF (United Negro College Fund) issued a letter to the White House requesting that the 2017 National HBCU Conference be postponed, given that a new Executive Director of the White House Initiative on HBCUs (historically black colleges and universities) has not been appointed, and the lack of progress on HBCU initiatives. The letter was addressed to Andrew Bremberg, Director, Domestic Policy Council for the White House, and Betsy DeVos, Secretary, U.S. Department of Education. Read that letter below:

Dear Director Bremberg and Secretary DeVos:

On behalf of UNCF and our member historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs), I am writing in regard to the 2017 National HBCU Week Conference sponsored by the White House Initiative on HBCUs and the U.S. Department of Education.

After thoughtful deliberation, UNCF joins with other HBCU advocacy organizations in requesting a postponement of the annual HBCU conference in September sponsored by the White House Initiative on HBCUs, and we ask you to reconsider yesterday’s announcement that the White House will move forward with the conference. At a critical time in our nation, and in the spirit of unity among our HBCUs, we believe this postponement would allow us to work together to develop a common agenda that will serve the best interests of our HBCUs, and especially our students.

UNCF recommends that the White House postpone the HBCU conference in order to focus on appointing an Executive Director of the White House Initiative who has the respect of the HBCU community and establishing this office as part of the Domestic Policy Council, as set forth in Executive Order 13779 signed in February; convening the President's Board of Advisors on HBCUs; and developing a meaningful plan of action with concrete commitments to invest in and advance HBCUs. UNCF previously has provided the Administration with a roadmap for such investments, and we look forward to working with you to identify the highest short-and long-term priorities.

UNCF and our member institutions believe that these actions would best actualize the Administration's commitment to HBCUs in lieu of the convening planned for September. Further, UNCF will not release, as part of the conference, an important national HBCU economic impact study that we have commissioned if the conference occurs as planned.

We make this recommendation in the spirit of sincerely advancing our mutual goals of promoting excellence and innovation at the nation's HBCUs and enhancing their unique educational, economic and civic contributions to the country.

Please do not hesitate to contact me if you would like additional information on UNCF's views.

Sincerely,

Michael L. Lomax, Ph.D.

President and CEO

Lowe’s donates $500,000 in emergency financial aid to help HBCU students

Financial assistance helps HBCU students stay on track to graduate

Lowe’s donated $500,000 to UNCF’s 37 historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) to award emergency student aid to financially needy graduating seniors. UNCF’s Emergency Student Aid (ESA) is a lifeline for UNCF-supported HBCU students with unanticipated needs or special circumstances such as the loss of a parent’s job. More than 200 seniors received aid during the 2016-17 academic year, allowing them to stay in school and on track to graduate. 

“College is quite expensive, but it is an investment that is certainly worthwhile,” said Quentin Perkins, a senior majoring in computer science at Florida Memorial University. “My parents are not able to pay for tuition out of pocket, so receiving this scholarship will enable me to continue to make progress toward my degree and to prepare for a career as an information technologist.” 

Since 2009, Lowe’s has partnered with UNCF’s emergency student aid program to provide $4.2 million in just-in-time aid. Thanks to Lowe’s long-term commitment to increasing post-secondary success for students at UNCF member schools, more than 1,700 students have been able to graduate on time. A UNCF partner since 1985, Lowe’s has donated more than $4.5 million to UNCF over the past three decades. 

“For more than 30 years, Lowe’s has been a vital partner in UNCF’s continuing mission to increase post-secondary access and success for students attending its member schools who need critical funding to earn their degrees,” said Dr. Michael Lomax, UNCF president and CEO. “We commend Lowe’s for their investment in better futures for students across the country.” 

“More than ever, a college education is foundational to building bright futures, inspiring leaders and stronger communities,” said James Frison, Lowe’s community relations director. “Scholarships and financial aid often provide the assistance needed for students having trouble paying for a degree so they continue and stay on the course. Lowe’s is proud to help make a college education a reality for many of our future leaders.” 

UNCF, the nation’s largest and most effective minority education assistance organization, launched ESA in 2009 to help recession-impacted students at risk of having to interrupt their studies and delay their degrees due to unpaid tuition balances, textbooks and room and board fees. In supporting UNCF’s ESA, Lowe’s offered support in a major way again this academic year to help students walk across the finish line. This current round of support from Lowe’s includes a total award of nearly $64,000 to the five UNCF-supported HBCUs in North Carolina: Bennett College, Johnson C. Smith University, Livingstone College, St. Augustine’s University, and Shaw University. 

"Lowe’s is a visionary leader in its class,” said Shaw University President Dr. Tashni-Ann Dubroy. “The reverberating ramifications of their investment go well beyond a student's graduation. It provides financial strength by eliminating the need for a family to secure a loan or credit card payment toward the final year of college. It gives students confidence and peace of mind heading into the critical senior year, allowing them to focus on internships, jobs and graduate school applications instead of finding part-time employment." 

To donate to UNCF’s Emergency Student Aid, visit www.UNCF.org/CESA. 

UNCF, National Urban League, and Education Post Release Joint Report on Black Education Efforts

UNCF, the National Urban League, and Education Post today released “Building Better Narratives in Black Education,”a joint report published by UNCF’s Frederick D. Patterson Research Institute, providing tangible approaches to shift the narrative concerning Black educational reform. The findings of the report aim to better engage communities around K-12 education and drive substantive policy changes for Black students. The three organizations will gather national and local education advocates, policy-makers, and community leaders today for a public launch event and reception at UNCF’s headquarters, featuring special guests Dr. Michael L. Lomax, UNCF president and CEO, and Marc H. Morial, president and CEO of the National Urban League. The launch event also includes a panel of education leaders who will discuss accountability, improving educational outcomes, and improving college completion for African American students.

“Building a better narrative means privileging African American voices and perspectives as central drivers of successful urban school reform, as these conversations have largely excluded communities of color,” said Dr. Lomax. “We’re excited about engaging with our partners in this important work, which we believe will encourage substantive dialogue and drive meaningful changes to the way Black education reform is viewed, promoting an ‘urgency of now’ in ed reform.”

“At a time when only seven percent of Black 12th graders are performing at ‘proficient’ or above on national math assessments, compared with 32 percent of white students, we know we’ve got lots of work to do,” said Morial. “As education is the pathway to economic prosperity, we’re glad to work together with UNCF and Education Post to engage local communities in taking critical steps to address education achievement gaps.”

WHAT: “Building Better Narratives in Black Education” report release, panel discussion, and reception 
WHEN: 4:45 p.m. – 7:30 p.m. EST Thursday, Sept. 15, 2016 
WHERE: UNCF, 1805 7th Street, NW, Washington, DC, 20001, located at Shaw-Howard Metro station 
WHO: 

•     Jonathan Atkins, Community Engagement Manager, K-12 Advocacy, UNCF
•     Dr. Meredith B. L. Anderson, Senior Research Associate (Patterson and K-12 Advocacy), UNCF
•     Sekou Biddle, Vice President, K-12 Advocacy, UNCF
•     Dr. Michael L. Lomax, President and CEO, UNCF
•     Marc H. Morial, President and CEO, National Urban League
•     Eugene Pinkard, Deputy Chief of School Turnaround and Performance, DC Public Schools
•     Susie Saavedra, Senior Director for Policy and Legislative Affairs, National Urban League Washington Bureau
•     Naomi Shelton, Director, K-12 Advocacy, UNCF
•     Hal Smith, Vice President, Education, Youth Development and Health, National Urban League
•     Christopher Stewart, Director of Outreach and External Affairs, Education Post
•     Shantelle Wright, Founder and CEO, Achievement Prep

WATCH: Live Stream begins at 5 p.m. EST on UNCF’s Facebook page at http://www.facebook.com/uncf

Follow the discussion on Twitter: @uncf @Edu_Post @NatUrbanLeague #BBNBlackEd

About UNCF 
UNCF (United Negro College Fund) is the nation’s largest and most effective minority education organization. To serve youth, the community, and the nation, UNCF supports students’ education and development through scholarships and other programs, strengthens its 37 member colleges and universities, and advocates for the importance of minority education and college readiness. UNCF institutions and other historically black colleges and universities are highly effective, awarding 20 percent of African American baccalaureate degrees. UNCF annually awards $100 million in scholarships and administers more than 400 programs, including scholarship, internship and fellowship, mentoring, summer enrichment, and curriculum and faculty development programs. Today, UNCF supports more than 60,000 students at more than 1,100 colleges and universities across the country. Its logo features the UNCF torch of leadership in education and its widely recognized trademark, “A mind is a terrible thing to waste.®” Learn more at UNCF.org, or for continuous news and updates, follow UNCF on Twitter at @UNCF.

About Education Post 
Education Post is a non-partisan communications organization dedicated to building support for student-focused improvements in public education from preschool to high school graduation. The organization advocates world-class schools that support children to love learning, to be challenged and supported in the classroom, to have access to a range of enrichment activities, to be socially and emotionally strong and healthy, and to graduate from high school with everything they need to pursue the future they see for themselves. Learn more at educationpost.org.

About The National Urban League 
The National Urban League is a historic civil rights and advocacy organization dedicated to economic empowerment in African American and other underserved urban communities. Founded in 1910 and headquartered in New York City, the National Urban League impacts and improves the lives of more than 2 million young people and adults annually through direct service programs, which are implemented locally by 94 Urban League affiliates, serving 300 communities in 36 states and the District of Columbia. Learn more at nul.iamempowered.com.

More than $300,000 Raised at 2016 UNCF “A Mind Is…” Hamptons Summer Benefit

(Black PR Wire) More than $300,000 was raised at the recent United Negro College Fund (UNCF) “A Mind Is…” Hamptons Summer Benefit, hosted by UNCF New York. Derek Jones, managing director, GMC Grosvenor Private Markets; Cathy Hughes, founder and chairperson, Radio One; and Reginald Hudlin, president, Hudlin Entertainment, were honored with the “Keepers of the Flame” award for being champions of diversity and education.

More than 300 guests attended the Aug. 6-7 benefit weekend events, held at the private residences of Nancy Silberkleit, co-CEO of Archie Comics, and Bill and Diane Plummer. Karen Hunter, SiriusXM radio talk show host, was mistress of ceremonies. Mayor Lovely Warren of Rochester also attended. Dr. Michael Lomax, UNCF president and CEO, delivered remarks on UNCF’s impact in the state of New York and the importance of community support.

“Where else can you come together to help send kids to college in such elegant surroundings,” said Lomax. “With the generosity of all of you—our community—UNCF has invested almost $2 million in college scholarships for New York students and millions of dollars in cash support and assistance for our 37 member HBCUs and the almost 1,300 New York students who attend them.”

In its 72-year history, UNCF has raised more than $4.5 billion to support minority students’ quest for better futures. Events such as these are made possible by the admirable support of community and corporate partners such as this year’s “A Mind Is…” Hamptons Summer Benefit platinum sponsors, Siris Capital Group, LLC, and Frank Baker, Peter Berger and Jeff Hendren. Additional sponsors included The Lincoln Motor Company, GCM Grosvenor, Grain Management, LLC, Robert Smith, Investors Bank, Derek Jones, Advent Capital Management, LLC, Combs Enterprises, Palladium Equity Partners and Wellness Interactive.

SiriusXM, World Bride Magazine, The Independent and WEAA 88.9 FM served as the media partners for this prestigious event.

“The status and the money that I have been blessed with in this life…is so I can reach back and help some other black children who are just like me,” said Hughes. “That’s the story of UNCF—you reach back.”

The electrifying weekend included a VIP brunch with an exclusive Resort 2017 fashion preview by designer Carlton Jones, silent auction, entertainment by Yotoco and student testimonials from UNCF scholars Ahmaad Dent (Morehouse College, 2018) and Syndi Falconer (Clark Atlanta University, 2016).

Newark Mayor Ras J. Baraka to host UNCF 4th annual Mayor's Masked Ball

The New Jersey local office of UNCF will hold its fourth annual Mayor’s Masked Ball on Friday, June 24. More than 300 business, education, and civic leaders including Mayor Ras J. Baraka will gather to raise funds to help provide New Jersey students the necessary resources to get to and through college.

“I am elated to host the fourth annual Mayor’s Masked Ball,” Baraka said. “As a graduate of Howard University, a historically black college and university, I understand the importance of UNCF’s work. I am a dividend of the organization’s commitment in providing quality education for minority students and work diligently to pay it forward for the next generation of leaders.”

Vaughn and Marnie G. McKoy serve as event co-chairs. Masked Award recipients are Elnardo and Samantha Webster, Community Baptist Church of Englewood and Johnson & Johnson for their generosity in providing hope and opportunity to deserving minority youth. Sponsors to date are PSEG, Fountain Baptist Church, Suez, Berger Organization, PNC Bank, Gibbons PC, Johnson & Johnson, Community Baptist Church of Englewood, Becker LLC and Hayward Industries.

WHO: New Jersey local office

WHAT: Newark UNCF Mayor’s Masked Ball

WHEN: 6 p.m., Friday, June 24

WHERE: 
Newark Club 
1085 Raymond Blvd. 
New Jersey, NJ 07102

For tickets or more information about the New Jersey local office Mayor’s Masked Ball, please visit: http://give.uncf.org/NewarkMayorsMaskedBall

Follow this event @uncf #MMBNJ

About UNCF 
UNCF (United Negro College Fund) is the nation’s largest and most effective minority education organization. To serve youth, the community and the nation, UNCF supports students’ education and development through scholarships and other programs, strengthens its 37 member colleges and universities, and advocates for the importance of minority education and college readiness. UNCF institutions and other historically black colleges and universities are highly effective, awarding nearly 20 percent of African American baccalaureate degrees. UNCF awards more than $100 million in scholarships annually and administers more than 400 programs, including scholarship, internship and fellowship, mentoring, summer enrichment, and curriculum and faculty development programs. Its logo features the UNCF torch of leadership in education and its widely recognized motto, “A mind is a terrible thing to waste, but a wonderful thing to invest in.”® Today, UNCF supports more than 60,000 students at more than 1,100 colleges and universities. Learn more at http://www.uncf.org/ or for continuous news and updates, follow UNCF on Twitter @UNCF

Wells Fargo, UNCF, Terrence ‘J’ Jenkins and Natasha Eubanks Team Up to Empower HBCU Students

Company hosts My Life, My Story, #MyUntold Town Hall event for more than 300 Atlanta University Center Consortium (AUCC) students to promote the #MyUntold℠ social media campaign as a platform to affirm positive cultural perceptions.

Today, Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE: WFC) and UNCF (United Negro College Fund) rallied students from three of the nation’s leading Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) —Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College and Spelman College — for an interactive town hall event to promote positive images of African American youth. HBCU alumni, Terrence ‘J’ Jenkins, actor and philanthropist, and Natasha Eubanks, founder and CEO of TheYBF.com, joined Wells Fargo and UNCF leaders to inspire students to use social media to share personal experiences that proactively address cultural mischaracterizations.

Seeking to broaden the current social narrative involving the African American community, Wells Fargo launched the #MyUntoldSMcampaign to offer a more comprehensive perspective on the African American experience. The social media campaign honors the community tradition of storytelling by creating a platform to share personal stories, history and defining moments– while fostering cultural awareness outside of the community. The official #MyUntold website (wellsfargo.com/MyUntold) aggregates user-generated and company-produced content (photos, videos and written posts) to offer visitors deeper insight into African American culture.

Today’s My Life, My Story, #MyUntold Town Hall event engaged HBCU students by empowering them to lead and take personal accountability for enlightening others on the full cultural identity of African American youth. Students were invited to contribute their stories at an onsite photo/video booth, and during “man on the street” interviews captured across campus. To further encourage community engagement, the Haitian Club of Spelman College and the Minority Association of Pre-Medical Students of Clark Atlanta University were presented with a $1,000 check to develop programs to support local community organizations.

“Wells Fargo’s #MyUntold campaign is valuable because it provides an important vantage point of the community that extends one-dimensional storytelling,” says Jenkins. “It’s my hope that coming out of this event students will be inspired to become the official storytellers of their community.”

To date, the social media storytelling campaign has generated hundreds of personal stories from across the country. It has become a catalyst for self-expression that showcases diverse experiences among a common culture.

“Wells Fargo is happy to introduce #MyUntold to millennials in this way. We’ve taken the campaign across the country, and people literally wait in line to share their stories. As a company, we appreciate the opportunity to connect directly with the communities we serve in such a personal way,” says Lisa Frison, vice president, African American Segment manager, Wells Fargo. “HBCU students in particular have the power to become the opinion formers of a generation, and #MyUntold is one way they can use their voice to lead.”

Following the event, students were joined by community members for a #MyUntold themed Instameet. Participants traveled to various campus landmarks to capture photo and video content (to share on Instagram®) that reflects their HBCU experiences.

“Since #MyUntold launched, UNCF has been a strong supporter of the campaign,” says Richard Shropshire, Vice President of Communications and Marketing, UNCF. “This platform aligns with our ongoing relationship with Wells Fargo that includes longstanding support of the UNCF Empower Me Tour and UNCF Evening of Stars, engagement platforms which empower the African American community to aspire to higher education.”

Wells Fargo continues to promote the campaign through efforts with Oprah.Com and Interactive One, creating custom content, including stories from actor and HBCU alumni, Lance Gross, and Grammy-nominated singer-songwriter, Elle Varner. Renowned pastor, author and motivational speaker, Bishop T.D. Jakes recently shared his story about how his father’s sacrifice inspired him to strive for success while reaching back to help others. The company continues to encourage the community to share their own stories using #MyUntold.

About Wells Fargo

Wells Fargo & Company (NYSE: WFC) is a nationwide, diversified, community-based financial services company with $1.8 trillion in assets. Founded in 1852 and headquartered in San Francisco, Wells Fargo provides banking, insurance, investments, mortgage, and consumer and commercial finance through 8,700 locations, 12,800 ATMs, the internet (wellsfargo.com) and mobile banking, and has offices in 36 countries to support customers who conduct business in the global economy. With approximately 265,000 team members, Wells Fargo serves one in three households in the United States. Wells Fargo & Company was ranked No. 30 on Fortune’s 2015 rankings of America’s largest corporations. Wells Fargo’s vision is to satisfy our customers’ financial needs and help them succeed financially. Wells Fargo perspectives are also available at Wells Fargo Blogs and Wells Fargo Stories.

Contacts

For Wells Fargo & Company
Media
Melody Thuston
312-729-4221
MThuston@golin.com
or
Valerie Williams
704-743-6544
valerie.williams@wellsfargo.com
@ValWilliamsWF

Five Things United Negro College Fund is Doing for Students

[SOURCE] Michael Lomax is the head of the United Negro College Fund. On Sunday in Atlanta, the UNCF holds its 36th annual telethon. Lomax sees the event as part of a greater effort to recruit a new generation of African-American stars to donate to the organization, which distributes millions in aid annually to historically black colleges and universities and provides scholarships to racial and ethnic minority students to attend all types of institutions. Here are five things to know about the UNCF, based on an Associated Press interview with Lomax:

KOCH DONATION

The UNCF faced criticism from some areas for taking the Koch donation. But Lomax said that for seven decades — stemming from a 1944 campaign started by oil baron John D. Rockefeller — UNCF has sought donations from people of all political persuasions. “We have always, always said our cause is universal and all Americans should support it,” Lomax said.

The UNCF got 1,800 applications for 44 positions in a Koch-funded entrepreneur program in a matter of weeks.

Lomax said he doesn't discuss politics with the Kochs. “What we talk about is the one thing we share a belief in, that young people should be given support to get a good education, and by the way more of them should be given the opportunity to become entrepreneurs,” he said.

RECRUITING NEW GENERATION OF DONORS

The telethon has raised hundreds of millions, and Lomax said a new generation has stepped up to replace entertainers such as the late singer Lou Rawls, the longtime host.

Lomax said contributions are now coming from people like comedian Kevin Hart, musicians Pharrell, Trey Songz and Usher and NBA superstar Chris Paul, and other entertainers who may or may not have attended historically black colleges and universities but whose parents did.

FREE COMMUNITY COLLEGE PLAN

Lomax was not a fan of the Obama administration's idea to make community college free, which would cost billions of dollars. He said Congress should instead strengthen the Pell Grant program to help low-income students attend all types of institutions.

There are hundreds of thousands of students who don't want to go to community college “and they should have the same resources and the same advocacy from the federal government,” he said.

The administration's community college plan may help middle-class families who might not critically need it, “and I'm not for that when there are people out there who are desperate,” Lomax said.

PROPOSED RATINGS SYSTEM

The administration is developing a college ratings system designed to look at access, affordability and outcomes so students and their parents will have a better idea about which institutions provide the best value.

Lomax said the focus on ratings has been a “great distraction” from discussions about how to better get money to students to pay for school. He said there are already plenty of ratings of colleges available.

What it's not addressing is “once I make my choice, how do I pay if I'm low to moderate income?” Lomax said.

WHY HISTORICALLY BLACK COLLEGES AND UNIVERSITIES?

Lomax sees a bright future for historically black schools despite tightening budgets. These schools produce almost 1 in 5 of all African-Americans with bachelor's degrees, according to the organization.

“We think we're doing more with less,” he said. “We could do even more with greater advocacy that we have earned.”