Student Freedom Initiative

Congratulations to Dr. Charlie Hill on his historic $1.5 million gift to Virginia State University, the largest contribution ever made by a living alumnus.

This extraordinary investment is more than a milestone, it’s a powerful statement about legacy, leadership, and belief in the future of HBCU excellence. Through his continued support, Dr. Hill is helping expand academic opportunities, strengthen student success, and ensure that VSU continues to thrive for generations to come.

From his service on the Board of Visitors to establishing the Annase Wilks Hill Minerva Circle endowment in honor of his late wife, Dr. Hill’s commitment has been both personal and impactful, especially in supporting women in STEM.

Thank you for continuing to pour into the institution that helped shape you and for creating pathways for those who will follow.

This Black History Month, we’re reminded that building wealth starts long before the money hits your account. It starts with how you think, what you believe is possible, and the decisions you make daily.

Rashad Bilal and Troy Millings have built Earn Your Leisure on this exact principle—changing the mindset around money so our community can change outcomes.

Investing isn’t just about dollars.
It’s about discipline. Education. Ownership.

Start where you are. Learn what you can. Build what’s yours.

We extend our heartfelt prayers and support to the Shaw University community as they recover from the recent accidental electrical fire on campus. Our hearts are especially with the 140 students who have been suddenly displaced and are now facing uncertainty about where they will live and how they will finish the semester.

We know that stable housing is essential to student success. Research shows that when students are unable to remain in on-campus housing, they are less likely to persist and complete their degree (Source: Inside Higher Ed).

At Student Freedom Initiative, we believe every student deserves the support they need to stay on track. That’s why we are raising funds to assist Shaw University students impacted by this fire. Through SFI’s micro-grant program, we are ready to provide immediate emergency relief to help students navigate this unexpected hardship and continue toward graduation.

Those who wish to help can donate by texting SHAWFIRE to 44-321. 100% of funds will go directly to Shaw University to support impacted students and help them complete the semester.

Black wealth didn’t start with modern opportunity.
It was built through resilience, vision, and community.

This Black History Month, Student Freedom Initiative launches We Built This, honoring the institutions, students, and leaders who created pathways to economic mobility and continue shaping what’s next.

From HBCUs to communities, education has always been a tool for freedom.
And we’re still building.