Honoring the Past. Investing in the Future.
During Black History Month 2026, we celebrate the enduring legacy, faith, leadership, and transformative impact of Black communities—especially through education, ministry, and justice-rooted leadership. This month, we join with the wider United Methodist Church in lifting up the work of the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry (GBHEM) and the life‑changing impact of the Black College Fund.
Why GBHEM Matters
The General Board of Higher Education and Ministry is the leadership development agency of The United Methodist Church. GBHEM prepares global leaders for the church and the world by supporting theological education, clergy formation, and vocational discernment.
Mission: Bringing people together to discern, learn, and lead for the church and the academy.
Vision: A world where everyone is living fully into God’s call on their lives.
Core Values: Belonging, Discovery, Faithfulness.
GBHEM is recognized across the denomination for its commitment to antiracism, decolonization, and worldwide inclusion, diversity, equity, and access—living out a vision of belonging that reflects God’s justice and grace.
The Black College Fund: A Ministry of Opportunity
One of the most powerful ways The United Methodist Church supports educational equity is through the Black College Fund (BCF). The fund supports 11 historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) related to the church—the largest number supported by any church body in the United States.
More than 95% of all Black College Fund gifts go directly to campuses, helping strengthen academic programs, maintain vital infrastructure, support students, and keep tuition affordable.
UM‑related HBCUs have educated generations of leaders—bishops, pastors, educators, medical professionals, public servants, and civil rights leaders—whose influence far exceeds their size or resources.
Highlighting Our Black College Fund Schools
Bennett College (Greensboro, NC)
Founded in 1873, Bennett College is one of only two all‑women’s HBCUs in the United States. Rooted in the Methodist tradition, Bennett prepares women of color through a transformative liberal arts education to lead with purpose, integrity, and confidence. Bennett is nationally recognized for social mobility, leadership development, and its historic role in the civil rights movement.
Bethune‑Cookman University (Daytona Beach, FL)
Founded in 1904 by Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune with $1.50 and unwavering faith, Bethune‑Cookman University stands as a testament to vision, resilience, and Christian leadership. The university educates students to become responsible citizens and solution‑seekers grounded in faith, scholarship, leadership, and service.
Claflin University (Orangeburg, SC)
Established in 1869, Claflin University was the first institution in South Carolina to offer higher education to students regardless of race. A United Methodist institution, Claflin is committed to student‑centered education, academic excellence, and developing globally engaged visionary leaders.
Clark Atlanta University (Atlanta, GA)
Formed in 1988 through the consolidation of Atlanta University and Clark College, Clark Atlanta University carries a historic legacy of academic excellence and spiritual formation. CAU continues to shape ethical leaders through rigorous scholarship, research, and global engagement.
Additional Black College Fund Schools
- Dillard University
- Huston‑Tillotson University
- Meharry Medical College
- Paine College
- Philander Smith University
- Rust College
- Wiley University
Black History Month is not only about remembering—it is about continuing the work. By supporting Black colleges, we invest in leaders who will shape the church, heal communities, pursue justice, and live boldly into God’s call.
We invite you to celebrate, learn, give, and pray with us this Black History Month. Together, we honor a legacy of faith and education—and help build a more just and hopeful future.
To learn more about the Black College Fund or explore ways to give, click here or contact bcfumc@gbhem.org.
