Issue link: https://alabamapower.uberflip.com/i/1531436
17 Alabama's HBCUs earn top marks for education innovations that change lives. Alabama's HBCUs (Historically Black Colleges and Universities) are proving wellsprings of education innovation, implementing several recent programs and initiatives focused on brighter futures and a more equitable society. The Alabama Power Foundation has long recognized the valuable contributions HBCUs make to the state's education landscape and has provided more than $2.4 million in grants since 2017. In 2023, the foundation awarded grants of more than $1.5 million to HBCUs; the contributions fund scholarships, facility upgrades, programming and more, all to advance education for Alabama students. One program supported by the foundation is the Miles College Women's Business Center in Fairfi eld. As part of the college's renowned Judge U.W. Clemon Center for Economic and Social Justice, the Women's Business Center provides guidance and encouragement for budding female entrepreneurs and is the Clemon Center's signature initiative. But it's only one of multiple programs that combat inequities and teach valuable skills in economics, entrepreneurship, health, leadership and technology. President Bobbie Knight's Speaker Series exposes students to civil rights activists, elected offi cials and forward-thinking experts. Its Lunch and Learn Leadership program provides leadership training and motivation. And its Social Justice Institute and Golden Bears Social Enterprise Pitch Competition open doors and benefi t students and the surrounding community. "The Alabama Power Foundation's support has been crucial in launching the center and fueling its ongoing efforts to address racial injustices and promote positive societal change," says Jarralynne Agee, Ph.D., senior vice president of Strategic Initiatives at Miles College. A L A B A M A H A S M O R E H B C US T H A N A N Y OT H E R S TAT E . •

