Here is this week’s news of grants or gifts to historically Black colleges and universities or for programs of particular interest to African Americans in higher education.
Alicia Odewale, professor of practice in African American studies at the University of Houston, has received a $150,000 grant from the National Geographic Society for her project, “Silent Witnesses: The Black Heritage Tree Project.” Alongside a team of colleagues from various academic disciplines and institutions, Dr. Odewale will work to document generations of Black stories in historically Black towns in Houston, as well as Galveston, Texas; Tulsa, Oklahoma; and St. Croix in the U.S. Virgin Islands.
Historically Black South Carolina State University has been awarded a $250,000 grant from the National Institute for Student Success to improve student enrollment, retention, and graduation rates. The new funds will support the HBCU’s First-Year Experience and Student Success Center operations, as well as summer bridge programs aimed at supporting incoming students.
Clark Atlanta University, a historically Black educational institution in Georgia, has received a $100,000 gift from board member John Hope Bryant in honor of President George T. French, Jr.’s work to advance the HBCU’s mission and excellence in higher education. The investment will go towards scholarships, academic programs, and essential student resources.
Historically Black Florida A&M University received a $125,000 donation from Indelible Solutions, a management consulting firm, during the university’s recent School of Business and Industry Forum Series. Jerome Byers, chairman of Indelible Solutions, with Michael White and Joshua Hay, FAMU alumni and co-founders of the consulting firm, presented the donation and spoke to students about the importance of entrepreneurship, community collaboration, and strategic thinking in business.
