Florida A&M University Joins UNCF’s Project ACCLAIM to Expand Access to Asset Management Careers
Tallahassee, Fla. (Jan. 20, 2026) — Florida A&M University (FAMU) has been selected to join UNCF’s innovative Project ACCLAIM (Accelerating Learning in Asset Investment Management), an initiative designed to expand pathways for students at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) into the asset management industry.
FAMU and Morgan State University are the newest institutions added to Project ACCLAIM, which launched in fall 2025 at Morehouse College and Howard University. The program was made possible through a transformative $10 million gift from Adage Capital Management and Elizabeth and Phill Gross to cultivate the next generation of financial leaders and build wealth in underserved communities.
Students at both institutions will manage $4 million in investment capital, gaining
hands‑on experience while supporting institutional priorities and the sustainability
of the program.
Florida A&M University was founded in 1887.
“Florida A&M University was founded on the principle of creating opportunities where none existed,” said FAMU President Marva Johnson, J.D. “Project ACCLAIM aligns with our mission to prepare students to lead in industries that shape economic outcomes. This partnership will equip our students with real-world skills, expand their professional networks, and empower them to create impact well beyond the classroom.”
Project ACCLAIM provides HBCU students with a comprehensive undergraduate learning experience in investment management through rigorous coursework, hands-on training, and co-curricular activities. The program enhances finance and investing curricula, fosters collaboration among faculty, and establishes a centralized, student-managed investment pool.
“Thanks to another generous $10 million gift from my friends and visionary philanthropists Elizabeth and Phill Gross and Adage Capital Management, UNCF is now able to expand Project ACCLAIM to engage students who are pursuing careers in business, finance and asset management attending Morgan State University and Florida A&M University,” said Michael L. Lomax, Ph.D., president and CEO, UNCF. “We are more committed than ever to grow the talent in the financial services workforce and help close the wealth gap in our nation through this transformative initiative.”
Project ACCLAIM offers a comprehensive undergraduate learning experience in investment management, combining rigorous coursework, applied learning and co-curricular programming. The initiative enhances finance and investing curricula across HBCUs, fosters a collaborative community of practice among faculty and establishes a centralized student-managed investment pool.
“This expansion marks a significant milestone for Project ACCLAIM and is especially meaningful as we celebrate 100 years of Black History and remember Dr. King’s vision for economic empowerment,” said Shawn Thomas, Ph.D. director of Investment Leadership Programs and Lead for Project ACCLAIM. “Morgan State and Florida A&M both bring exceptional talent and leadership to the HBCU community and their participation strengthens our shared commitment to preparing students for high‑impact careers.”
For students in FAMU’s School of Business and Industry, Project ACCLAIM represents a meaningful bridge between theory and practice.
Candace Harrison
“Project ACCLAIM will provide me with hands-on experience in managing investments while preparing me for a career in investment and asset management,” said Candace Harrison, a finance student in FAMU’s School of Business and Industry. “Being part of this opportunity will have a meaningful impact on my education as an emerging finance student.
Zion Hackney, also a student in FAMU’s School of Business and Industry, said the program transforms
interest into action. “Project ACCLAIM is the catalyst that closes the gap between
interest to action-based results. As a student interested in the Financial Services
industry and investing, Project ACCLAIM creates the opportunity to learn, study, and
gain invaluable hands-on experience in the capital markets that reaches the curiosity
of students just like myself and more to come.”
Inger Daniels-Hollar, Ph.D., assistant professor in FAMU’s School of Business and Industry and Project ACCLAIM program director at FAMU acknowledged members across the entire FAMUly—students, faculty, President Johnson, administrators, and external partners—who helped bring the opportunity to the institution.
“We’re all excited to work together to realize the potential of superlative tools and resources in the hands of our eager and talented FAMU students. Participating in Project ACCLAIM is a definitive Rattler Strike,” she said. “Our students will build advanced investment skills, contribute to the asset management industry, spread the word about investing to our community, and pay it forward to future Rattlers.”
The inclusion of Florida A&M University in Project ACCLAIM represents a significant step forward in UNCF’s commitment to support HBCUs and increase opportunities for students to achieve successful careers in the asset management industry.
Media Contact
Rachel James-Terry
Senior Director of Strategic Communications
rachel.jamesterry@famu.edu
