UNCF New Orleans Walk for Education
The 39th annual UNCF New Orleans Walk for Education will be hosted on October 17 at the LSU-New Orleans Intramural Field.
The community 5K helps to raise money for local Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) such as Xavier University of Louisiana (XULA) and Dillard University (DU), as well as the students who attend those HBCUs. It is not uncommon to see student leaders from these HBCUs actively participate in the walk, boosting morale for UNCF's cause through chants, dances, and performances by each school's bands and cheer squads.
National and Local Impact
The UNCF (United Negro College Fund) was founded in 1944 and has become the leading advocate for minority education in the country. UNCF raises funds to support their 36 member universities and award over $62 million in scholarships to students at 600 institutions across the country.
Aside from traditional scholarships, UNCF also gives students access to several different professional development programs such as the Walt Disney Enhanced Scholars Program that prepares students for careers in the entertainment industry. With over eight decades of advocacy under their belt, UNCF tackles both the financial and political side of education through their programming and initiatives. They recently launched their Capital Campaign, which advocates for accessible education for all students in the United States.
The UNCF New Orleans Walk for Education has set $150,000 as its donation goal for this year's walk. Currently, they have reached a little over the half way point and sit at $85,000 in donations. Registration is still open for individuals or teams looking to participate in this rich New Orleans tradition. For those who can't attend the race, donations are also accepted.
Visit UNCF.org/NewOrleansWalk to learn more about how you can get involved.
More Than Just a Walk
Participants will have the opportunity to participate in a variety of different activities throughout the event. UNCF brings out plenty of activities for kids and adults alike, food vendors, health and wellness vendors, and live performances for everyone to enjoy.
Event Timeline
- 7 a.m. - On-Site Registration begins
- 8 a.m. - Group Warm-Up/ Stretch
- 8:30 a.m. - Race Begins
- 10:30 a.m. - Award Presentation/Finish Line
