Statement from Dr. Harry L. Williams, president & CEO of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, on the passing of President Jimmy Carter
December 31 2024 - 1:20PM
The Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) joins the nation in
mourning the loss of President Jimmy Carter, while celebrating his
legacy as an advocate for education and equality. That legacy
includes his profound impact on historically Black colleges and
universities (HBCUs), which he supported as critical institutions
in the pursuit of equity and opportunity. He was the first U.S.
president to issue an executive order to increase the federal
government’s engagement with HBCUs and established the White House
Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
President Carter demonstrated dedication to uplifting
marginalized communities, recognizing the transformative power of
education. His engagement with HBCUs, both as a leader and a
supporter, emphasized his belief in empowering all students to
reach their full potential.
On behalf of TMCF and the millions of students, alumni and
faculty we represent, we extend our deepest condolences to the
Carter family. We are profoundly grateful for President Carter’s
contributions to our mission and his enduring dedication to
creating a more inclusive and equitable society. Thank you,
President Carter, for your advocacy and commitment to opportunity
for all.
About the Thurgood Marshall College
FundEstablished in 1987, the Thurgood Marshall College
Fund (TMCF) is the nation’s largest organization exclusively
representing the Black college community. TMCF member schools
include the publicly supported historically Black colleges and
universities, historically Black community colleges and
predominantly Black institutions, enrolling nearly 80% of all
students attending Black colleges and universities. Through
scholarships, capacity building and research initiatives,
innovative programs and strategic partnerships, TMCF is a vital
resource in the K-12 and higher education space. The organization
is also the source of top employers seeking top talent for
competitive internships and good jobs. TMCF is a 501(c)(3)
tax-exempt, charitable organization.
Clara Ross Stamps
The Thurgood Marshall College Fund
240-931-0696
clara.stamps@tmcf.org