The UNCF and the Lifeline of Black Higher Education

For decades, the United Negro College Fund has fueled scholarships, supported institutions and strengthened the pipeline of Black leaders across the country.

For more than 75 years, the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) has worked behind the scenes—and on the front lines—to keep the doors of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) open and accessible.

Founded in 1944, the UNCF has raised over $5 billion, helped more than half a million students earn college degrees, and supported the growth and sustainability of 37 member HBCUs.

At a time when college costs are soaring and support for DEI initiatives is faltering, the UNCF’s mission is more vital than ever.

Financial Lifeline for Students and Institutions - Each year, the UNCF distributes more than $100 million in scholarships to more than 10,000 students, making higher education possible for those who might otherwise be left behind. In addition to student aid, the UNCF provides operating funds to HBCUs, enabling them to maintain affordable tuition and deliver quality academic programs.

“For students like me, UNCF changed the game,” said Darius King, a senior biology major at Clark Atlanta University. “They didn’t just give me money—they gave me a future.”

The organization also assists schools in building endowments to ensure long-term financial sustainability and competitiveness.

Advocacy at the National Level - Beyond funding, the UNCF serves as a powerful voice in public policy discussions. The organization lobbies for increased federal and state support for HBCUs and works to ensure that students of color are not left behind in education reform debates.

In recent years, UNCF advocacy helped secure increased Title III funding, student debt relief initiatives, and greater investment in minority-serving institutions.

“They’re not just fundraisers—they’re freedom fighters,” said Dr. Helena Morgan, President of an HBCU in Georgia. “They understand the structural challenges our schools face and fight for us in every arena.”

Support Beyond the Classroom - The UNCF’s impact extends beyond scholarships. The organization runs numerous programs designed to enhance student success, including mentorships, career development, internships, and STEM training.

It also partners with K-12 schools to promote college readiness and bridge the gap between secondary and postsecondary education. These early pipeline efforts ensure that HBCUs continue to enroll and graduate students who are prepared to lead.

Driving Economic Growth - With support from the UNCF, HBCUs contribute billions to the economy and create thousands of jobs. A study commissioned by the UNCF found that every dollar invested in HBCUs generates more than $1.44 in initial spending, fueling economic development in underserved areas.

Furthermore, graduates supported by UNCF scholarships experience a significant boost in earning potential. According to the study, HBCU graduates—many of whom receive aid from UNCF—earn more over their lifetimes compared to non-degree holders from similar backgrounds.

A Legacy of Empowerment - The UNCF’s iconic slogan—“A mind is a terrible thing to waste”—is more than a tagline. It is a call to action that has fueled generational change. For students attending HBCUs, the organization’s support provides not only access to education but also the tools to lead, serve, and thrive.

As attacks on educational equity increase and HBCUs face ongoing funding challenges, the UNCF continues to serve as a crucial ally—uplifting institutions and investing in students who will shape the future.

For thousands of Black students across the country, the journey to success begins with a scholarship application, a mentor’s guidance, and the unwavering support of an organization that believes in their potential.