The Arthur M. Black Family Foundation recently announced a $50 million, 10-year investment to improve the graduation rates at the four historically Black colleges and universities in Atlanta, Georgia: Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College, Morris Brown College, and Spelman College.
The historic donation will provide “gap scholarships” to students who are close to completing their degrees, but face financial gaps that could prevent them from finishing. Beginning in 2026, the program is projected to support nearly 10,000 students across the four HBCUs over the next decade.
“Atlanta holds a special place in my heart and will always be an integral part of our family foundation’s giving,” said Arthur M. Blank. “We know Spelman, Morris Brown, Morehouse, and Clark Atlanta are vital to Atlanta’s future, and we are deeply committed to supporting the students who will carry that legacy forward. We recognize that these campuses, like many across the country, are home to generations of students whose promise inspires us. Our hope is that by helping more students earn their degrees, launch successful careers, and become alumni who give back, we are investing in a cycle of opportunity that benefits young people and their families in Atlanta and communities across the nation for years to come.”
Blank is a co-founder of The Home Depot and owner of the National Football League’s Atlanta Falcons.
