A group of institutions is charting a new course of action, one that is grounded in tradition, strengthened by collaboration, and built for the future, at a time when higher education is facing 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 conversion can be done with the right opportunities and strategic partnerships. The HBCU Transformation Project was launched four years ago by UNCF, Thurgood Marshall College Fund ( TMCF), and Ed Advancement as a collective 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 enrolled 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 influence in a time of admission contraction. According to Dr. Michael L. Lomax, president and CEO of UNCF,” this energy is rooted in a connected approach.” When we combine administrative information with humanitarian funding and unified technical support, we can effect change in ways that benefit students, campuses, and communities. The program currently supports more than 40 HBCUs, each chosen to reflect the breadth and breadth of the business. Campuses have redesigned their enrollment procedures, upgraded their systems platforms, and invested in data-driven student support services as a result of this action. A shared commitment to transition to secure long-term administrative health and increase student outcomes is what connects these attempts. In a rapidly changing higher education market, it’s about creating the infrastructure that will enable these institutions to prosper. Our kids require more than just degrees. 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, ensuring that our institutions are positioned to meet 21st-century workforce requirements and opening doors to chance. The program removes the all too common hurdles of archaic systems and under-resourced 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 helping corporations do what they already do well, but with the proper tools, techniques, and power behind them, according to Jim Runcie, CEO of Ed Advancement. ” Operative strength starts with green progress,” according to the president. 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 administrative 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, it is where change takes place. The path is clear when one looks back. Through technology, leadership development, data usage, and investment, we must keep strengthening these institutions. The establishment of HBCUs is a wise move for the future of American higher learning and for maximizing the potential to connect with global partners in an effort to influence how global societies are mobilized. More partners should join us presently, including investors, politicians, employers, and innovators. The foundation has been laid. The velocity is growing. And there is a genuine chance. 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
