The Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) SOAR (Seeking, Observing and Achieving Results) program expanded to 16 campuses this summer, with activities beginning on the last day of May and continuing through July. SOAR began in 2024 on the campuses of four historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).
The SOAR program provides high school juniors and seniors with exposure to postsecondary opportunities and ensures a successful transition to college. In year one, high school juniors experience the variety of opportunities available following high school graduation by living on an HBCU campus and learning about campus life, academics and preparing for success.
Students will stay in touch with their home institution during their senior year for additional programming and support. Following high school graduation, students take part in further development and training that will prepare them for a successful transition to college and/or the workforce.
Through SOAR, students develop the skills and confidence necessary to thrive in college and beyond. During the program, students can expect to explore academic majors and career pathways; attend professional and leadership development sessions; connect with the campus community through current students, faculty, staff and alumni; learn how to navigate the admissions process and discover financial aid resources; and build a meaningful network with peers from similar interests.
“It’s imperative that our pre-college students are familiar with HBCUs and the cultural advantages they provide,” Dr. Harry L. Williams, president & CEO of TMCF, said. “If we want to strengthen our nation’s publicly supported HBCUs, we must ensure students are learning early on that an HBCU education produces leaders prepared for the global workforce.”
Campuses include Alabama A&M University and Drake State Community & Technical College; Alabama State University and Trenholm State Community College; Alcorn State University; Cheyney University of Pennsylvania; Chicago State University; Fort Valley State University; Grambling State University; Hinds Community College – Utica; Kentucky State University; Lawson State Community College; Lincoln University of Missouri; Shelton State Community College; Southern University at Baton Rouge; Texas Southern University; Tuskegee University; and the University of the Virgin Islands.
