October 14, 2025

The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation just rolled out a dazzling $50 million donation for Atlanta’s historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs)! This is no ordinary gift—it is specially made for students who are almost ready to graduate but have run out of other financial help. These “gap scholarships” will make sure that money troubles don’t stop these bright minds from finishing their degrees. "These grants are a material investment in hope," said Fay Twersky, president of the foundation, speaking to the Associated Press. This magic money will reach nearly 10,000 students attending Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College, Morris Brown College, and Spelman College. What’s more, the foundation promises to keep this support coming for ten years, aiming to boost graduation rates and build long-term chances for students. Why now? Because the scene for college money is shifting fast. Right before this, the Trump administration announced a one-time $500 million fund for HBCUs and tribal colleges. But at the same time, programs that help colleges with many Hispanic and minority students face cuts. So this Blank Foundation pledge brings much-needed safety and strength for Atlanta’s HBCUs. Who is the man behind this generosity? Arthur Blank, co-founder of The Home Depot and owner of the Falcons and Atlanta United, is a treasure trove himself with over $11 billion! He pledged to give away at least half his fortune through the Giving Pledge. Over time, his foundation has gifted more than $1.5 billion across education, health, arts, and community projects. This $50 million is the biggest yet for Georgia’s HBCUs. Earlier, the foundation had given $10 million for Spelman College’s innovation lab and $6 million to upgrade sports facilities at Clark Atlanta, Albany State, Miles College, and Savannah State. What’s the big impact? Atlanta’s HBCUs create about $1 billion every year in the local economy. Their students shine in social mobility, often climbing from the lowest 40% income families to the top 60%, the foundation reports. “Our hope is that by helping more students earn their degrees, launch successful careers, and become alumni who give back, we are investing in a cycle of opportunity that benefits young people and their families in Atlanta and communities across the nation for years to come,” the foundation told the Associated Press. Dr. F. DuBois Bowman, president of Morehouse College, hailed the gift. “This monumental investment will empower our students to remain focused on their academic studies and ensure that their talent, ambition, hard work, and integrity, not financial hardship, will determine their futures,” he said. This donation shows how vital HBCUs are for education, leadership, and community power. By focusing on students close to finishing, the foundation hits a crucial need head-on. It lets talent and determination, not money problems, decide the future of these promising students. More than just easing money stress, this plan sets up a cycle of opportunity. Students helped by these scholarships are more likely to become alumni who give back to their schools and communities. In a city where HBCUs have long nurtured African-American leaders, this gift keeps their legacy alive and kicking. With this $50 million pledge, the Blank Foundation demonstrates how smart giving can transform lives, communities, and the future of education itself. It’s not just a donation—it’s a promise to uplift people, build communities, and keep hope soaring high!

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Tags: Arthur m. blank family foundation, Hbcu scholarships, Atlanta colleges, Financial aid, Student support, Higher education,