In October 2024, the Walt Disney World Resort in Florida will host a special event: the HBCU Week Foundation's College Fair, set to take place on October 23 and 24 at the ESPN Wide World of Sports Complex. Over 8,000 high school students from the southeastern United States and beyond are expected to attend, seeking information about opportunities at historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs).
Organized by the nonprofit HBCU Week Foundation, the event aims to promote enrollment at HBCUs while offering students scholarships and on-the-spot college admissions. Representatives from more than 40 HBCUs will be present, awarding four-year scholarships worth millions of dollars. At the previous event in 2022, also held at Walt Disney World Resort, over $11 million in scholarships were distributed—a record for the fair.
Disney Magic and Commitment to Education
In addition to educational opportunities, the college fair will feature the signature Disney magic. Appearances by popular Disney characters, musical entertainment, and special surprises will create a unique atmosphere, making the event an unforgettable experience.
The HBCU Week Foundation is supported by “Disney on the Yard,” an initiative aimed at deepening Disney's engagement with HBCUs. The goal of this initiative is to establish a pipeline for HBCU graduates, offering internships, mentoring, career opportunities, and scholarships. This collaboration underscores Disney's commitment to investing in education and the future of young people.
Ashley Christopher, the founder of the HBCU Week Foundation, emphasized the importance of Disney's support: “Disney's commitment opens doors for these talented young people to attend HBCUs and paves the way for a debt-free education.”
Significance and Future Prospects
The HBCU Week Foundation plans to expand its efforts with a recently awarded $1 million grant. This funding will help further promote HBCU enrollment, provide academic scholarships, and support students as they transition into their professional careers.
With the College Fair at Walt Disney World Resort, another significant contribution is being made to the education of young African American students, giving them the opportunity to shape their academic and professional futures.
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