The HBCU Week Foundation, Inc., a nonprofit organization focused on bridging the education-to-employment gap in higher education, has announced a significant contribution from Barclays US Consumer Bank. The bank is donating $300,000 to establish a scholarship fund that will benefit students attending five historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs): Delaware State University, Hampton University, Spelman College, Morehouse College, and Howard University.

This donation coincides with the seventh annual HBCU Week held in Wilmington from September 17-24. The partnership between Barclays and HBCUs aims to help young people develop essential skills and opportunities for obtaining college degrees. This initiative reflects Barclays' commitment to promoting social equity within local communities.

Ashley Christopher, Esq., founder and CEO of the HBCU Week Foundation, expressed gratitude for the support: “We are incredibly grateful for Barclays’ generous donation and continued support. As we work to widen our impact in the US, these scholarship funds will help many more college students on their path to economic success.”

HBCU Week provides assistance to underrepresented high school students through partnerships with organizations like Barclays. Its mission includes encouraging enrollment in HBCUs, offering scholarships for matriculation, and maintaining an employment pipeline. So far, the foundation has facilitated over 6,000 on-the-spot college acceptances and awarded more than $60 million in scholarships from both HBCUs and corporate partners.

Omar McNeill, Head of Compliance at Barclays US Consumer Bank stated: “We are proud to partner with the HBCU Week Foundation... By equipping more high school students to attend HBCUs, they will acquire the skills and networks to help them successfully secure employment upon graduation.”

For those interested in learning more about HBCU Week or participating as volunteers can visit https://www.hbcuweek.org/.