The United Negro College Fund (UNCF) will host its Second Annual UNCF/Omni-Channel Radio Radiothon on April 25, 2025, with an ambitious goal of raising $25,000 through a unique '$25 - 25 - $25' donation campaign. The 12-hour live-streamed event will showcase the organization's commitment to supporting Black education and providing scholarships to students across the United States.
The radiothon, commemorating UNCF's 81st anniversary, seeks to engage 1,000 listeners in donating $25 each, demonstrating the collective power of community support for higher education. The event will feature an impressive lineup of celebrities, musicians, and entertainers who will help raise awareness and encourage donations.
Notable participants include Congresswoman Maxine Waters, Russell Thompkins Jr., Gerald Alston, Evelyn 'Champagne' King, and a special tribute to Frankie Beverly. The star-studded event underscores the significant impact of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in producing influential leaders across various fields.
UNCF's data reveals the critical importance of these institutions: 70% of Black doctors, 50% of Black lawyers, and 80% of Black judges are HBCU graduates. Despite representing only 3% of all colleges and universities, UNCF institutions award 13% of bachelor's degrees, 5% of master's degrees, and 10% of doctoral degrees earned by Black students.
The radiothon highlights UNCF's broader mission of supporting educational opportunities. In 2023-2024, the organization awarded over $100 million in scholarships to students attending more than 1,100 schools, including its network of 37 HBCUs. This year, 310 students in Illinois alone received UNCF scholarships.
By providing financial support and advocating for minority education, UNCF continues to break down barriers and create pathways to success for Black students. The radiothon represents a crucial opportunity for individuals to contribute to this important mission and help ensure that talented students can pursue their educational dreams.
