Billionaire Robert F. Smith teamed up to Help HBCU students Enjoy More Freedom
Steve Harvey, the acclaimed comedian, television show host, entrepreneur, and philanthropist, and Robert Smith , a billionaire tech investor and philanthropist touted by Forbes as the richest Black person in America, teamed up to provide HBCU students with additional resources to pay for the cost of a college education. The purpose of this endeavor, the Student Freedom Initiative, is to lower student debt and provide funding to HBCU students seeking to enroll at HBCUs.
While this endeavor provides a great opportunity to the student seeking enrollment into college, it could also provide an even greater benefit to the advancement of HBCUs. However, the administrative leadership of HBCUs needs to take action to make their campuses competitive with Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs) that are competing for these students.
HBCUs no longer possess a monopoly regarding the college education of black students. These students have a choice and programs like the Student Freedom Initiative are providing the resource to allow the students to attend MSIs equipped with facilities and community infrastructure to enhance the student college experience.
HBCUs leadership can become better competitors for these students by converting their campuses into economic engines thru engaging in the economic development of their surrounding communities. The HBCU Community Development Corporation (HBCUCDC) can assist in this effort.
If your HBCU needs assistance getting started contact us at www.hbcucdc.com.
