Black faith leaders have ended a yearlong boycott and “Target fast” after saying the retailer met three of four demands related to investment in Black businesses and diversity commitments. Led by Rev. Jamal Bryant, organizers said the campaign sparked a national conversation about corporate accountability while pledging to continue monitoring the company’s actions.
Tag: United Negro College Fund
Delaware State University partnership with Risepoint expands online degree access
Delaware State University has partnered with education technology company Risepoint to expand access to flexible, workforce-focused online degrees through eHBCU, the nation’s only Black online higher-education consortium. The collaboration advances eHBCU’s mission to bring the pride, community and opportunity of Historically Black Colleges and Universities to learners regardless of location, with new programs expected to launch in Fall 2026.
Bowie State University awarded 50 million from MacKenzie Scott
By Deborah BaileyAFRO Contributing Editor Bowie State University received notification of a $50 million grant from philanthropist MacKenzie Scott on Nov. 14. The unrestricted grant represents the largest philanthropic gift in Bowie State’s history and doubles the size of a $25 million gift Scott granted to Bowie in 2020. “Her generosity arrives at a pivotal moment […]
National HBCU Orator Competition open to current HBCU students
The HBCU Oratorical Challenge, a national competition highlighting the public-speaking talents of students attending historically Black colleges and universities, is now accepting submissions through Dec. 15, 2025. The event offers HBCU students opportunities to strengthen communication, leadership and creative expression across four categories, with national finals set for April 18–19, 2026, in Atlanta.
Investing in equity: How grants provide Black women with pathways to success
Black women are launching businesses at record rates but often face steep barriers to funding. Grant programs like SoGal, IFundWomen of Color and the Fearless Fund are stepping up to fill the gap. With expert insights from Felicia Wise of UNCF, this article explores how targeted funding and transparent communication can help Black women entrepreneurs thrive.

