Corynn Johnson

An esteemed alumna of Oakwood University, a UNCF member school, recently established a UNCF scholarship fund to support students at her alma mater. “Education is key,” said Dr. Erogers Hykes, Ph.D., a major gifts donor to UNCF and a board member of the Association of Black Educators of New York (ABENY).

Attorney Reginald J. Brown’s commitment to UNCF is rooted in his educational journey. From an early age, he was supported by a community that rallied around him, helping set him on a path to Harvard University, a career in law, and a strong commitment to giving back.

HBCUs have long turned limited resources into strong outcomes. They educate leaders, advance innovation and strengthen communities across the country. HBCUs generate an estimated $16.5 billion in annual economic impact and support more than 136,000 jobs nationwide. Today, many campuses are adapting to a rapidly changing workforce with facilities that have not kept pace. This gap in infrastructure affects how students learn and prepare for future careers.