Washington, D.C., Feb. 17, 2026 (GLOBE NEWSWIRE) -- The Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) joins the nation in mourning the loss of the Rev. Jesse L. Jackson, an iconic civil rights leader and unwavering advocate for historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs).
Rev. Jackson knew the power of an HBCU education firsthand, graduating from TMCF member school North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University in 1964 with a bachelor’s in sociology. He arrived on campus shortly after the legendary sit-in protest by the A&T Four at the Greensboro Woolworth’s. He quickly established himself, becoming student government president, quarterback of the Aggie football team and a member of Omega Psi Phi.
Rev. Jackson’s advocacy inspired some of the world’s largest corporations to make their workforce more diverse, brokering partnerships with TMCF and others through multi-year investments to provide students with scholarships and exposure to Silicon Valley.
“Rev. Jesse Jackson is a towering figure in American history and a catalyst for HBCUs over his lifetime,” Dr. Harry L. Williams, president & CEO of TMCF, said. “We share in our grief with many, including the family of Rev. Jackson, as his life and work impacted the lives of generations.”
About Thurgood Marshall College Fund
Established in 1987, the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) is the nation’s largest organization exclusively representing the Black college community. TMCF member schools include the publicly supported historically Black colleges and universities, predominantly Black institutions and historically Black community colleges, enrolling nearly 80% of all students attending Black colleges and universities. Through scholarships, capacity building and research initiatives, innovative programs and strategic partnerships, TMCF is a vital resource in the K-12 and higher education space. The organization is also the source of top employers seeking top talent for competitive internships and good jobs. TMCF is a 501(c)(3) tax-exempt, charitable organization. For more information about TMCF, visit www.tmcf.org.
Clara Ross Stamps The Thurgood Marshall College Fund 240-931-0696 clara.stamps@tmcf.org
