Survey reveals financial challenges for HBCU students

The Dr. N. Joyce Payne Research Center announced preliminary findings from a financial well-being survey aimed at students from historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). This presentation took place at the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) DevCon Potomac | 25 conference near Washington, D.C. The Payne Center worked with the Savings Collaborative to gather insights into the financial behaviors and aspirations of HBCU students. Participants in the survey were students from TMCF member schools. Dr. Barbara Freeman, who is the founder and CEO of the Savings Collaborative, led a session at the conference and shared a summary of the research. The survey aims to help HBCU students improve their financial skills, support long-term financial goals, and foster generational wealth. A more detailed report will be released on April 23 at Virginia State University. This event will include a panel of HBCU students discussing strategies for financial management based on the survey results. Dr. M.C. Brown II, the executive director at the Payne Center, expressed excitement about the preliminary findings. He noted that the survey helps identify how students manage their finances and where they need more support to reach their financial dreams. The Thurgood Marshall College Fund, established in 1987, supports HBCUs and offers scholarships and resources to help students succeed. It represents a large portion of the Black college community, providing valuable support for education and job opportunities.