Courtesy of Morgan State University
TheĀ National FinTech CenterĀ at Morgan State University announces the receipt of a 3-year, $1,050,000 grant fromĀ Ripple, a leader in enterprise blockchain and crypto solutions, for the continued support of the Center and its advancement of blockchain and financial technology (FinTech) research, education and programming. This latest round of funding builds upon Rippleās initial investment in Morganās FinTech Center, firstĀ announced in 2019. The partnership between Morgan and Rippleās University Blockchain Research Initiative (UBRI) has played a pivotal role in furthering the application and understanding of blockchain, cryptocurrency, cybersecurity, and other FinTech areas within the University and the extended network of Historically Black Colleges and/or Universities (HBCUs) collaborating with the Center.
āThis generous $1,050,000 grant is not just an investment; it’s a catalyst that propels our ability to innovate, collaborate, and prepare our students to be at the forefront of the FinTech revolution,ā said Ali Emdad, Ph.D., interim dean of the Earl G. Graves School of Business and Management and founding director of the National Center for the Study of Blockchain and FinTech. āThe ongoing partnership with Ripple stands as a beacon, illuminating the path toward a transformative educational experience that aligns with the evolving landscape of the global economy.ā
For half a decade, Rippleās UBRI has proven its dedication to creating inclusive opportunities that stretch the limits of educational research and provide a rich learning atmosphere. Ripple reaffirms its commitment to promoting these evolving technologies through philanthropic efforts, research endeavors, and shared expertise in renewing its partnership with Morgan.
āRippleās commitment to working closely with universities like Morgan State and its broad network of HBCUs is rooted in our vision that blockchain technology is a force for good,ā said Lauren Weymouth, Rippleās senior director of university partnerships. āAs crypto and blockchain integrate further into our daily lives, these university partnerships become absolutely essential ā weāre empowering the next generation with the tools they need to shape our financial future.ā
The collaboration will ensure the continuation of the National FinTech Center at Morgan State University, focusing on leveraging cutting-edge technologies like blockchain and cryptocurrency to revolutionize finance and technology sectors. The multi-year grant from Ripple will bolster research, education, faculty and student technical projects, ecosystem development, and operational support.
Additionally, it will support faculty research that bridges blockchain technology with critical fields like data analytics, artificial intelligence, and machine learning. Through the partnership, Morgan will also be able to foster a range of educational workshops, facilitate student-led initiatives within blockchain clubs, support a FinTech solution incubator, and host national conferences to elevate the collective understanding of the financial sector’s evolution.
Since its launch in 2018, which was partly due to increased Morgan studentsā interest in crypto-economics and blockchain, the Center has served as the hub of the HBCU Blockchain and FinTech Network. In its capacity as a hub, the Center actively engages students and faculty throughout the network to bolster innovation and enhance the transfer of knowledge and leadership skills. The FinTech Center is housed within MorganāsĀ Earl G. Graves School of Business and Management.
Added Dr. Emdad, āThis partnership is geared towards equipping a new generation of business thinkers and innovators, ensuring they are well-versed in FinTech and blockchain technologies to meet upcoming industry demands.”
