Last year the Pete du Pont Freedom Foundation celebrated a pivotal moment with the launch of the HBCU Innovative Solutions Initiative, a collaborative effort between PDFF and Delaware State University. Supported by a generous $100,000 grant from Bank of America, this initiative was introduced at DSU’s 13th Annual HBCU Philanthropy Symposium, setting the stage for four finalists to begin turning ideas into innovation.
An expansion of the Reinventing Delaware program, the HBCU Innovative Solutions Initiative creates a dynamic space where HBCU Philanthropy Symposium guests—including stakeholders, administrators, and thought leaders—are invited to participate in a roundtable pitch competition. Each year, ten ideas will be presented during a luncheon open to the full Symposium audience, who will vote for their favorite concept. The winning idea will then undergo further development, and be awarded a $10,000 investment grant to propel its implementation.
The Four Finalists
Recently, PDFF proudly announced the selection of four outstanding finalists for the inaugural initiative. Our finalists were chosen for their compelling vision and dedication to projects that represent a substantial potential impact and have worked intensively with local experts in marketing, business planning, business modeling, research, etc. to develop their ideas.
The winning project of the HBCU Innovative Solutions Initiative is judged on the merits of its societal benefit and potential, and will be announced at the 14th Annual Symposium held June 30 through July 3, 2024.
Connie Cochran – HBCU Day Of Giving
With 25 years of experience in alumni relations at Texas Southern University, Connie Cochran is leading the development of the HBCU Day of Giving. This initiative aims to establish a nonprofit organization dedicated to rallying support and funds for HBCUs nationwide. Following a successful pilot program at TSU earlier this year, a national launch for the initiative is planned for late 2024.
Dr. D’Wayne Edwards – Strategic Industry Guidance Network for Academic Learning (SIGNAL) Institute
Dr. D’Wayne Edwards, President of Pensole Lewis College of Business and Design, spearheads the SIGNAL Institute, which aligns academic curriculum at HBCUs with industry standards at leading enterprises. Focused initially on design disciplines, the institute enhances success outcomes for HBCU students and alumni by connecting instructors with industry experts, mentorship, and collaboration opportunities.
Dr. Manju Bhat – FUTURE NURSES
Dr. Manju Bhat, Dean at Winston Salem State University, addresses challenges in nursing education with the FUTURE NURSES program. Designed to enhance student retention and success, the initiative employs a pioneering near-peer mentorship model and summer institute, to support aspiring nurses through critical academic milestones.
Dr. Von Homer – Human Movement Institute (HMI)
Dr. Von Homer, an Assistant Professor at Delaware State University, has established the Human Movement Institute (HMI) to elevate HBCUs’ research capabilities. By forging strategic industry partnerships— starting with companies like KURU Footwear—HMI facilitates research and development collaborations, enhancing access to funding at HBCU institutions.
The 14th Annual HBCU Philanthropy Symposium: A Celebration of Creativity and Transformative Impact
The HBCU Innovation Initiative not only highlights the creativity and talent within HBCU communities but also underscores the importance of fostering diversity and inclusion in innovation.
The culmination of our finalists’ efforts will be showcased at the 14th Annual HBCU Philanthropy Symposium at the Gaylord National Resort & Convention Center from June 30 through July 3, 2024. Throughout the event, attendees will enjoy insightful presentations from the finalists, thought-provoking panel discussions, and invaluable networking opportunities with industry leaders and stakeholders.
PDFF is excited about the transformative potential of these projects and we look forward to celebrating all of our finalists at the symposium.