Friend,

Thousands of students are heading back to college as the fall semester begins, filled with dreams and determination. At UNCF (United Negro College Fund), we understand the financial gaps many of these students face—gaps that can be the difference between pursuing their education and having to pause their dreams.

Bridgette Florestal, a graduate of Xavier University of Louisiana who is now a physician, experienced financial struggles that threatened her education. Bridgette's journey wasn’t easy. After losing both parents at a young age, she and her brother were raised by their grandmother. But Bridgette excelled in school and applied for 150 scholarships. Only one organization responded: UNCF.

The UNCF scholarship provided Bridgette with the financial support she needed to attend college. The scholarship enabled her to attend and graduate from Clark Atlanta University and then Xavier University, an institution known for producing Black medical graduates. With this financial assistance, Bridgette pursued her dream of becoming a physician, even studying abroad in Cuba before returning to the United States to complete her medical training.

Bridgette’s story is a powerful example of how your support to UNCF makes a difference. Thanks to donors like you, students are overcoming financial barriers and achieving their educational goals. Your generosity helps make dreams a reality for countless students who are determined to succeed.

Learn more about Bridgette's story and the impact your donation to UNCF has:

As students head back to school this fall, they are grateful to have a community of supporters, like you, who believe in and support their potential. Thank you for being a vital part of their journey.