Michael Lomax Departs UNCF After Two Decades

Michael L. Lomax is stepping down as president and CEO of the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) after more than two decades of leadership, reflecting on a period he describes as a "renaissance" for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). His departure marks the end of a significant era for the organization, which has been instrumental in providing financial support and advocacy for students attending HBCUs and other minority-serving institutions. Lomax’s tenure, which began in 2004, saw the UNCF navigate evolving educational landscapes and increasing demands for equitable access to higher education.

During his more than 20 years at the helm, Lomax championed the critical role HBCUs play in educating a substantial portion of Black college graduates and leaders in various sectors. He consistently highlighted the unique contributions of these institutions to American society and the need for sustained investment to ensure their continued success and competitiveness. The UNCF, under his leadership, focused on increasing scholarship endowments, promoting innovative academic programs, and advocating for policies that support HBCUs and their students. This included efforts to secure federal and private funding, which are vital for the operational stability and growth of these often under-resourced institutions.

Lomax’s reflections often touch upon the challenges and triumphs he witnessed during his leadership. He has spoken about the persistent funding gaps that HBCUs face compared to predominantly white institutions, and the ongoing work required to address systemic inequities in higher education. Simultaneously, he has celebrated the remarkable achievements of HBCU graduates and the growing national recognition of these institutions' value. The "renaissance" he refers to signifies a period of renewed interest, increased enrollment, and enhanced philanthropic support for HBCUs, a trend he has actively worked to foster and sustain. His departure comes at a time when HBCUs are experiencing significant momentum, attracting greater attention and investment from both public and private sectors.

The United Negro College Fund, founded in 1944, has a long-standing mission to provide scholarships, financial aid, and support services to students of color pursuing higher education. The organization has disbursed billions of dollars in scholarships, enabling hundreds of thousands of students to earn college degrees. Lomax’s leadership has been central to the UNCF’s efforts to adapt to the changing needs of students and institutions, including expanding its focus on career readiness, graduate education, and research initiatives. His legacy is intertwined with the ongoing efforts to ensure that HBCUs remain vibrant centers of learning, innovation, and opportunity for generations to come. The UNCF continues its mission, building on the foundation laid during Lomax’s extensive service.