Blank Foundation Gives $4.2M+ to Atlanta HBCUs

Great news for students at Atlanta’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)! The Arthur M. Blank Family Foundation has already distributed over $4.2 million in scholarships, making a real difference in the lives of nearly 600 students. This is a fantastic start to their ambitious $50 million commitment to support institutions like Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College, Morris Brown College, and Spelman College.

A Decade of Support for HBCUs

This generous pledge, announced in October 2025, is set to unfold over 10 years and aims to help approximately 10,000 students achieve their educational dreams. The foundation’s goal is to provide crucial ‘gap scholarships,’ ensuring students have the financial support they need to cross the finish line and graduate.

Arthur Blank, owner of the Atlanta Falcons and chairman of the foundation, is a signatory of the Giving Pledge, committing at least half his wealth to philanthropy. This initiative aligns with a broader trend of significant support for HBCUs from major philanthropists.

Impactful Distribution So Far

The foundation’s commitment is already yielding impressive results. As of recent reports, over $4.2 million has been distributed. This funding has reached:
– 189 Spelman College students, receiving $1.65 million.
– 290 Clark Atlanta University students, receiving $1.45 million.
– 115 Morehouse College students, receiving $1.24 million.

Arthur Blank emphasized the importance of these institutions, stating, “We know Spelman, Morris Brown, Morehouse, and Clark Atlanta are vital to Atlanta’s future, and we are deeply committed to supporting the students who will carry that legacy forward.”

• 189 Spelman College students received $1.65 million.
• 290 Clark Atlanta University students received $1.45 million.
• 115 Morehouse College students received $1.24 million.

One inspiring recipient is Kayla Drummond, a first-generation student at Clark Atlanta University. She shared her gratitude, noting, “This diploma isn’t just for me, it’s for my family, it’s for my friends, the love, the prayers, the support.” Kayla is among the students set to graduate in spring 2026, thanks in part to this vital scholarship support.