Submitted by Kate Quinones
DAYTONA BEACH, Fla. (April 22, 2025) – Bethune-Cookman University (B-CU) recently was named as part of the NBA Foundation’s 14th grant round, which awarded $16.3 million to dozens of nonprofit organizations across the country. B-CU will use the funding to continue preparing young Black men for college and beyond.
Bethune-Cookman University’s Black Male College Explorers Program was established on campus in 1993 to provide mentorship and guidance to local youth in grades 6 through 12. The B-CU Black Male College Explorers Program stands as a transformative program dedicated to empowering minority male youth throughout Florida. The program aims to cultivate academic excellence, foster high school graduation, promote access to post-secondary education, and ensure long-term personal and professional success. By employing innovative and evidence-based interventions, the program inspires participants to unlock their full potential.
Participants benefit from a comprehensive array of services, including individualized tutoring, one-on-one mentoring, and extensive college and career exploration opportunities facilitated by dedicated B-CU faculty, staff, and students. These initiatives are designed to equip participants with the necessary skills and confidence to navigate their educational and career pathways effectively.
“This generous investment of $300,000 from the NBA Foundation enables us to expand our influence and support young Black men as they begin to carve out their futures,” stated Dr. Sherry Paramore, Vice President of Institutional Advancement at B-CU. “Together, we are not merely altering individual life trajectories but also fostering the development of stronger, more resilient communities through education, empowerment, and access to meaningful opportunities.”
This grant is part of a broader initiative announced by the NBA Foundation, which has allocated a significant amount of money to numerous nonprofit organizations in various NBA markets nationwide. This funding reflects the foundation's commitment to social responsibility and its vision of creating impactful change within underserved communities.
To learn more about B-CU’s Black Male College Explorers Program, including how to enroll, visit the website or contact:
Jermaine McKinney mckinneyj@cookman.edu
Program Director (386) 481-2358
About Bethune-Cookman University (B-CU)
Founded in 1904 by Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune, Bethune-Cookman University is a private, historically Black university in Daytona Beach, Florida. With a mission to develop global leaders committed to service, B-CU continues to empower students through academic excellence, innovative programs, and a rich tradition of cultural and community engagement.
About the NBA Foundation
Created in August 2020, the NBA Foundation drives economic opportunity for under-resourced youth, ages 14-24. The Foundation invests in local and national organizations that promote school-to-career and workforce development opportunities. For more information, visit nbafoundation.com.
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