UNCF Chicago to Host 41st Annual Walk for Education
About the Event
As UNCF (United Negro College Fund) observes its 80th anniversary, UNCF Chicago will hold its 41st Annual Walk for Education, September 7, 2024, at 8 a.m., in Chicago at Burnham Park, Grove 7, South DuSable Lake Shore Drive at 39th Street.
Choose Your Own Adventure
As in previous years, participants can choose a 5K walk/fun run or a 10K bike/skate course.
Supporting HBCUs and Students
The UNCF Chicago Walk for Education raises funds to support Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and the students they serve through the help of individuals, corporations and other group donors.
Scholarship Impact
From 2022 – 2023, UNCF awarded 541 scholarships to students in Illinois.
Notable Guests
Toni Preckwinkle, President of the Cook County Board of Commissioners, returns this year as Honorary Chair of the Walk for Education. Radio personality Ramonski Luv from FM Omni-Channel Radio will serve as emcee. Advocate, scholar and future veterinarian Amara Harris will serve as Grand Marshal.
“It is always a pleasure to have Toni Preckwinkle, President of the Cook County Board of Commissioners, serve as Walk Chair. Throughout the years, she has embraced UNCF and has continually shown her love for these young students and their families and her commitment to extend avenues to higher education,” said Lisa M. Rollins, UNCF Regional Development Director, Chicago.
New Feature: Education Row
This year, Education Row is new. It’s a free and open place to get scholarship information, resources, information about colleges and vital educational assistance for students and parents.
UNCF’s Legacy
“During our 80 years of existence and despite heavy odds, UNCF has continued to move the needle for HBCUs and students of color, fueling their progress,” said Dr. Michael L. Lomax, president, and CEO of UNCF.
“We continue to find ourselves at a crossroads where the need of our students and the demand on our member HBCUs is larger than ever before. I’ve said this before, and I’ll say it again—we are at risk of washing away a generation of talented and deserving African American and minority students. Donations are urgently needed to ensure our next generation of American leaders get to college, succeed and graduate. We invite everyone to register and join our Walk for Education to help ensure better futures for us all,” said Dr. Lomax.
Sponsors and Partners
UNCF Chicago 2024 Walk for Education sponsors are Aldi, SC Johnson, BMO Harris Bank and Old National Bank. Media partners are FM Omni-Channel Radio, Chicago Defender and WGN-TV 9 Chicago.
Registration and Sponsorship
The registration fee is $40 for adults and $20 for children ages 12 and under. To register for the event, please visit www.UNCF.org/chicagowalk. For more information and sponsorship opportunities, contact UNCF at 312-845-2200.
Stay Connected
You can also follow us on social media at #LaceUp4UNCF, #UNCFChicago, and @UNCFChicago.
Conclusion
The UNCF Chicago Walk for Education is a vital event that brings together individuals, corporations, and organizations to support HBCUs and the students they serve. By registering for the event, making a donation, or sponsoring the walk, you can help ensure a brighter future for African American and minority students.
FAQs
Q: When and where is the Walk for Education? A: The 41st Annual Walk for Education will take place on September 7, 2024, at 8 a.m. at Burnham Park, Grove 7, South DuSable Lake Shore Drive at 39th Street.
Q: What is the registration fee? A: The registration fee is $40 for adults and $20 for children ages 12 and under.
Q: How can I register or learn more about the event? A: To register for the event, please visit www.UNCF.org/chicagowalk. For more information and sponsorship opportunities, contact UNCF at 312-845-2200.
Q: What is Education Row? A: Education Row is a free and open place to get scholarship information, resources, information about colleges and vital educational assistance for students and parents.
