A group of institutions is charting a new course of action, one that is strengthened by collaboration and built for the future, at a time when higher education is being under increased scrutiny, economic headwinds, and technological disruption ( Black PR Wire ). These historically Black colleges and universities ( HBCUs ) are listed below. And they are demonstrating that change is flexible and not just possible with the right investments and corporate partnerships. The HBCU Transformation Project was started four years ago by UNCF, Thurgood Marshall College Fund ( TMCF), and Ed Advancement as a result of a coordinated effort to improve institutional sustainability, increase student success, and modernize campus operations across a growing network of these mission-driven institutions. The outcomes are impressive. Corporations participating in the HBCU Transformation Project increased their membership by 5.1 % while the national higher education membership declined between 2020 and 2024. These schools are not only holding the line, they are also expanding their effects in an age of membership contraction. According to Dr. Michael L. Lomax, president and CEO of UNCF,” this work is rooted in a connected approach.” More than 40 HBCUs, each chosen to represent the diversity and power of the business, are supported by the effort, which combines administrative information with humanitarian investment and convergent technical support to effect positive effects for students, campuses, and communities. Schools have redesigned their membership systems as a result of this action, updated their financial aid procedures, and made investments in data-driven student support services. A shared commitment to change that will ensure long-term administrative wellbeing and improve student outcomes is what connects these attempts. In a rapidly changing higher education market, it’s about creating the infrastructure that will enable these schools to prosper. Our kids require more than just degree. According to Dr. Harry L. Williams, president and CEO of TMCF,” they need significant channels to work, authority, and advancement.” The Transformation Project works to enable these organizations to reevaluate how they operate, beyond just admission and educational plans. The program removes the all too common hurdles of archaic systems and understaffed sections by investing in operations, shared services, and flexible back-office solutions. We are making fundamental adjustments that will have a long-lasting effect. We’re supporting corporations doing what they already do well, but with the proper tools, techniques, and power behind them, according to Jim Runcie, CEO of Ed Advancement. The economic significance of HBCUs may be overstated.” Green development starts with administrative strength. These organizations generate$ 16.5 billion yearly and assist over 136, 000 work nationwide, according to UNCF’s 2024 Economic Impact Report. Their graduates, who range from professionals to instructors to scientists to business leaders, fuel industries, foster relationships, and take the lead in all sectors. However, very frequently, this quality has been underrecognized. The HBCU Transformation Project is changing the narrative, moving from proof-of-concept to proof-of-impact. This advancement will be highlighted during UNCF’s annual meeting of institutional officials and corporate partners, UNITE 2025. UNITE is the most effective platform for sharing solutions, generating new concepts, and catalyzing partnerships with the design Together We Lead. From theory to practice, there is a change at play here. The path is clear when one looks away. Through technology, leadership development, data usage, and investment, we must continue to improve these institutions. The establishment of HBCUs is a wise move to maximize the potential to link arms with global partners and to try to influence global communities in a unique way. More partners are needed now, including investors, politicians, companies, and innovators. The foundation has been laid. The velocity is growing. And the prospect is true. We take the lead all at once. The United Negro College Fund ( UNCF ) is led by Dr. Michael L. Lomax, its president and CEO. The Thurgood Marshall College Fund ( TMCF ) is led by Dr. Harry L. Williams, its president and CEO. The Partnership for Education Advancement is led by Jim Runcie, the CEO and co-founder of it.
(BPRW) UNCF President and Thurgood Marshall College Fund President Co-Author Op-Ed Appearing in Diverse: Issues in Higher Education
