The Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) has launched a major initiative to help historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) grow stronger and more innovative, thanks to a $25 million grant from Lilly Endowment Inc.
Over the next five years, the grant will allow TMCF to fund Project HBCU Capacity Building: Maximizing HBCU Performance Through Investments in Research, Operations and Innovation. The project will boost member institutions through student success programs, operational systems improvements, and infrastructure upgrades.
TMCF’s plan is built on a multi-faceted approach. It will enhance administrative systems by introducing a new data management platform that streamlines operations, improves information sharing, and enables more efficient tracking of student progress, along with tailored professional development for faculty and staff.
The initiative will also foster collaboration by establishing learning communities where HBCUs can exchange best practices and strategies to improve enrollment, retention, and community engagement.
Additionally, select HBCUs will be invited to apply for competitive grants aimed at supporting faculty research, driving student success, enhancing career readiness, and upgrading technology for enrollment management, academic advising, and financial aid systems.
While some institutions will receive direct funding, the strategies developed for this project will benefit all HBCUs by fostering collaboration and sharing resources.
TMCF has been working to build institutional capacity at its member schools since 2021, focusing on key areas like student persistence, financial stability, and operational efficiency. This new grant will allow the organization to accelerate those efforts, creating a lasting impact across the HBCU community.
HBCUs are vital for educating Black students and developing leaders, yet many face challenges in funding, technology, and student support. By addressing these issues, TMCF strengthens their long-term sustainability and effectiveness, ensuring that these institutions continue to thrive and provide high-quality education to generations of students