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NATIONAL ALUMNI COUNCIL  (NAC)

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MARCH 2, 2024

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The United Negro College Fund (UNCF) – Fueling Dreams, One Moment at a Time

**Nationwide** – For over 75 years, the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) has been at the forefront of educational advancement for African Americans. Through scholarships, financial assistance, and institutional support, UNCF has helped thousands of students access higher education and graduate into successful careers. Its motto, "A mind is a terrible thing to waste," resonates across the nation, particularly in Atlanta, where UNCF has a deep and abiding influence on local HBCUs like Clark Atlanta University and Spelman College.

**A Legacy of Empowerment**  

UNCF’s tireless efforts have opened doors for students who might not otherwise have had the opportunity to pursue higher education. With partnerships spanning corporate donors, government entities, and private philanthropists, UNCF continues to fund dreams and futures. Events like the annual UNCF Mayor’s Masked Ball in Atlanta are key fundraising initiatives that have become staples of the local social calendar, drawing the city’s elite to rally behind the cause of education.

**Preserving Moments of Generosity and Success**  

As an esteemed photographer, Curtis McDowell has worked with UNCF to capture the faces and stories of students, alumni, and donors who make the organization’s mission possible. His ability to encapsulate the joy of achievement, the relief of scholarship recipients, and the unity of those who support UNCF’s cause has made him a trusted partner in telling the organization’s story through visuals.

From the poignant expressions of students receiving their first scholarship checks to the elegance and energy of the Mayor’s Masked Ball, McDowell’s photographs document the hope and future UNCF promises. "Each picture I take represents a dream made possible by UNCF," 

says McDowell. "It’s more than just moments captured—it’s a legacy of empowerment."

Through McDowell’s lens, the work of UNCF comes to life, highlighting the incredible impact education has on individuals, families, and communities. These images serve as a reminder of the power of opportunity and the essential role UNCF plays in securing brighter futures for generations to come.