From students and campus leaders to donors, sponsors, and community partners, HBCU AWAREFEST demonstrated what is possible when we come together around a shared mission: helping students graduate with less burdensome debt and stronger pathways to long-term economic success.
All week long, the energy was undeniable. From bold conversations to meaningful connections, we see what happens when purpose meets action.
New partnerships were built, ideas turned into strategy, and momentum grew around supporting HBCU students in tangible ways.
Because this work is about more than awareness—it’s about ensuring HBCU students graduate with less debt, more opportunity, and a clear path to long-term success.
Click here for a recap of HBCU AWAREFEST events.
HBCU AWAREFEST was made possible through the leadership and generosity of our sponsors and donors. Your partnership helped bring together voices across sectors to support students, strengthen institutions, and advance economic mobility.
Because of your support, we are expanding access to financial success pathways, reducing reliance on burdensome debt, and investing in the next generation of leaders.
We are grateful for your partnership and continued commitment to this shared mission, and we encourage you to be become a monthly donor by clicking here.
Shoutout to Wells Fargo – proud sponsor of Divine Nine’s on-stage moment at HBCU AWAREFEST bringing incredible energy to the crowd. The arena lit up with the presence of the Divine Nine, including Delta Signa Theta Sorority, Inc. and other NPHC organizations, showing up and showing out.
This moment was a true celebration of legacy, unity, and culture—highlighting the powerful role the Divine Nine continues to play in uplifting and connecting the HBCU community through shared history, pride, and purpose.
The HBCU Presidents Executive Summit brought visionary leaders together to align on the future of student success, financial sustainability, and economic mobility.
This was a conversation focused on moving HBCUs forward, with actions, and executable solutions around the following:
The Community Impact Summit at the AUC created meaningful opportunities for students, partners, and community leaders to connect and collaborate.
We were especially proud to support 15 Black Music Action Coalition interns from Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College, and Spelman College, who played a key role in supporting HBCU AWAREFEST activities and gaining hands-on experience. Their engagement reflects our commitment to creating real opportunities that extend beyond the event.
We extend our sincere thanks to the campus leadership and partners across the AUC institutions for their collaboration and hospitality in hosting this impactful gathering.
During HBCU AWAREFEST week, the Georgia Senate passed a resolution recognizing the significance of our HBCUs and their students and the adverse consequences of student loan debt on wealth creation. This is a major moment recognizing the importance of expanding opportunity and pouring into HBCU students across the region. Special appreciation to Senator Sonya Halpern for pushing this forward and standing behind the mission of HBCU AWAREFEST and the Student Freedom Initiative.
The inaugural HBCU AWAREFEST may be over, but the work of supporting HBCU students continues. You can help expand by paying it forward today!
To give now, text “SupportHBCUs” to 50-155. https://studentfreedominitiative.org/donate/
Together, we are building a future where talent, drive, and passion — not financial barriers — determine what’s possible.