For more than 150 years, The United Methodist Church has invested in the education and empowerment of African Americans and other underserved communities. Since 1972, the Black College Fund (BCF), administered by the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry, has supported 11 United Methodist–related HBCUs in the United States by strengthening academic programs, maintaining infrastructure, and keeping tuition affordable.
Support More Than Financial It’s Transformational
“Our agencies remain fully committed to supporting diversity, equity, and inclusion efforts in education,” said Roland Fernandes, general secretary for the General Boards of Higher Education and Ministry and Global Ministries. “The government’s attacks on and subsequent elimination of such programs makes the Black College Fund even more vital in supporting the 11 United Methodist- related HBCUs in fulfilling their vital missions.”
For Dr. Johnny M. Moore, president of Rust College, support from The United Methodist Church and its Black College Fund (BCF) is more than financial, it’s transformational. “I look at those funds as very beneficial,” Moore said. “It changes the trajectory of lives forever.”
Founded in 1866 by the Methodist Episcopal Church, Rust College is the oldest Historically Black College and University (HBCU) in Mississippi and among the oldest in the nation. Its mission began as a place of hope for freed people after the Civil War.
“Rust was a place of hope 160 years ago,” Moore said. “Today, it’s still a place of hope.”
Apportionment Fund Creates Opportunities
The Black College Fund, administered through the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry, provides annual support to 11 United Methodist-related HBCUs, helping Rust create opportunities for first-generation students. Moore says BCF funds help cover costs for graduate school prep, such as GRE and MCAT fees, and support internships and apprenticeships that expose students to careers they never imagined.
“It’s not just about money,” Moore said. “It’s about creating opportunities.”
Rust College uses the BCF 5% innovation funds act as seed money for projects like the law and medical school prep programs. Technology upgrades funded through BCF also help Rust engage students and improve retention.
For Moore, the impact of The United Methodist Church goes beyond dollars. It’s about connectionalism — prayers, partnerships, and shared mission. “The key to our success is partnerships,” he said. “It’s not about Dr. Moore. It’s about the success of our students. And it takes all of us to make that happen.”
Moore’s personal commitment mirrors Rust’s mission. “I’m at a point in my career where I’m not trying to build my résumé,” he said. “I’m trying to impact the lives of real people, people like me, first-generation, low-income students.”
With enrollment between 500 and 600 students, Moore’s vision for the next five years includes making Rust “student-ready” with flexible scheduling and micro-credentials, excelling in STEM and health professions, and deepening community engagement. His dream project: a modern student center to complement Rust’s historic legacy and attract new students.
He sums up the significance simply: “Imagine Holly Springs without Rust College — it’s unimaginable.”
Your Loyal Support Helps
When you give 100% to the Black College Fund apportionment you help Historically Black Colleges and Universities support solid and challenging academic programs. Please encourage your leaders and congregations to support the Black College Fund apportionment at 100 percent.
story by Wendy R. Cromwell, General Board of Higher Education and Ministry and General Board of Global Ministries
This story shows the impact of the Black College Fund—one of seven apportionment funds of The United Methodist Church—to sustain and strengthen historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) related to the denomination. Your church’s giving helps provide quality education, leadership formation, and spiritual growth opportunities for students who will lead and serve in communities around the world.
When your church supports the Black College Fund, you help students unlock their potential and keep a vital United Methodist legacy strong.
