Jay-Z’s Foundation Brings Financial Literacy To HBCUs

The Shawn Carter Foundation, in partnership with Toyota Motor North America, has introduced a financial education program designed to support students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). 

Called Champions for Financial Legacy (CFFL), the initiative aims to equip students and their surrounding communities with essential financial skills.

Bridging Knowledge Gaps to Build Wealth

CFFL, developed in collaboration with the Wharton School’s Coalition for Equity and Opportunity, is based on an existing curriculum by Dr. Keith Weigelt –  the Marks-Darivoff Family Professor of Strategy at The Wharton School, University of Pennsylvania.

The program covers practical topics like budgeting, credit management, mutual funds, and market risks, empowering participants with tools for economic success.

“This is a vision we are finally seeing come to fruition,” said Dr. Gloria Carter, CEO of the Shawn Carter Foundation in a press release. “With partners like Toyota and Wharton, we’re excited to see how CFFL impacts students and communities.”

In addition to classroom instruction, the program includes real-world applications.  Students will engage in service-learning projects, applying their financial knowledge to benefit local communities. 

Expanding Opportunities at HBCUs

The inaugural program will launch in Spring 2025 at three institutions: Lincoln University, Norfolk State University, and Virginia State University. 

Faculty will receive professional development training, and trained student ambassadors will promote the program on campus, extending its reach.

Toyota’s support builds on its long-standing collaboration with the Shawn Carter Foundation, including sponsorship of the annual HBCU Bus Tour. 

Feature Image Credit: Stupid Dope