Established in 1987, the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) is the nation’s largest organization exclusively representing the Black college community. TMCF member-schools include the publicly-supported historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), predominantly Black institutions (PBIs), and historically Black community colleges (HBCCs). TMCF member-schools represent 80% of all students attending HBCUs. Through scholarships, capacity building and research initiatives, innovative programs, and strategic partnerships, TMCF is a vital resource from Kindergarten through higher education. The organization is also a source for top employers seeking top talent for competitive internships and good jobs.
To date, the organization has awarded more than $500 million in assistance to its students and member-schools. TMCF distributes 98% of its awards exclusively to HBCUs,PBIs and HBCCs, which is more than any other organization that supports the Black college community. TMCF has achieved the highest level of accreditation from two major non-profit review groups: Charity Navigator (4-stars) and Guide Star (platinum level participant) . TMCF is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt, charitable organization and the place WHERE EDUCATION PAYS OFF.
What We Do
- Serve as a voice for HBCUs, HBCCs and PBIs
- Support and represent a network of member schools including the 56 publicly supported HBCUs, HBCC, PBIs, medical and law schools
- Serve as a resource for nearly 275,680 students enrolled in the HBCU, HBCC and PBI network of schools
- Enable education: TMCF member schools confer more degrees than any other HBCU organization. For FY2022, our schools conferred:
- 3,913 associate degrees
- 28,634 undergraduate degrees
- 6,526 graduate degrees
- 2,208 doctorate degrees
Our Vision
Changing the world…one leader at a time
Our Mission
To ensure student success by promoting educational excellence and preparing the next generation of workforce talent through leadership development.
Strategic Pillars
Student scholarships
TMCF invests in high-achieving students through merit- and need-based scholarships, making college more accessible while helping students stay focused on graduating. Financial barriers shouldn’t stand in the way of talent.
Equity and upskilling
TMCF prepares students not just for jobs, but for lasting careers. Through award-winning programming, TMCF helps students build in-demand skills—from problem solving to leadership development—while increasing access to those opportunities.
Talent sourcing
TMCF connects employers to a pipeline of talented, motivated students from HBCUs, HBCCs and PBIs. Our career readiness and recruitment programs are designed to align students’ strengths with the workforce needs of top companies and organizations.
Policy and advocacy
TMCF advocates for strong public policy that supports its member institutions, protects student interests and advances educational and economic equity for underrepresented communities across the country. Our work extends beyond campuses.
Capacity building
TMCF partners with member schools to strengthen everything from academic innovation to leadership development, helping HBCUs, HBCCs and PBIs build the resources and resilience needed to serve students for generations to come. Strong institutions create strong outcomes.
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