Washington, DC (January 18)—The Milken Institute is proud to announce the launch of its new cohort for the Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Fellowship program. This program aims to empower students from HBCUs by providing opportunities for professional development, networking, and personal growth.
The HBCU Fellowship program is a competitive initiative that offers selected students from HBCUs a unique and immersive experience. It is designed to bridge the gap between academia and industry, equipping students with the skills and knowledge needed to succeed in asset management careers. The program provides fellows with a rigorous curriculum, industry-leading mentors who will guide and support them throughout their journey, and exclusive access to networking opportunities, including participation in industry conferences and public and private events.
The program, launched in February 2023, is part of the Milken Institute's commitment to broadening the talent pipeline in the business community. It creates pathways for underrepresented talent from HBCUs, with a focus on achieving diversity at all levels of the asset management sector. The fellowship targets students entering their sophomore year at HBCUs.
The inaugural cohort consisted of 16 Fellows from nine HBCUs and concluded in September 2023. After completing the curriculum phase of the program, all Fellows received summer internship placements at prestigious asset management firms. One participant received a full-time job offer. Other program participants are on track for full-time job offers and return offers for additional summer internships.
"The Milken Institute is committed to fostering diversity and inclusion in our society, and we are excited to welcome a new cohort of talented individuals to the HBCU Fellowship program,” said Troy Duffie, director of financial Markets at the Milken Institute, and lead for the HBCU program. “Our commitment to the Fellows’ success is reflected in the comprehensive curriculum, hands-on practicum, and exclusive networking opportunities we provide. The achievements of the inaugural cohort underscore the transformative impact of this initiative on the lives and careers of young professionals."
The second cohort will feature 20 students from Alabama State University, Bethune-Cookman University, Central State University, Florida A&M University, Howard University, Lincoln University, Morehouse College, Norfolk State University, North Carolina A&T University, Philander Smith College, and the University of the District of Columbia.
Curriculum: The academic phase of the program exposes Fellows to a comprehensive curriculum developed in collaboration with ViableEDU, the program's esteemed educational partner. This rigorous academic experience equips participants with the knowledge and skills essential for success in the asset management industry.
Practicum: Upon successful completion of the curriculum phase, Fellows are matched with summer internships through partner firms. This hands-on practicum provides invaluable real-world experience and practical insights into the functioning of the asset management sector.
The Milken Institute remains dedicated to driving positive change in the asset management industry by leveraging resources to help cultivate a diverse and inclusive workforce through initiatives like the HBCU Fellowship program.
For more information about the HBCU Fellowship program and how to apply for future cohorts, please visit the HBCU Strategic Initiative and Fellowship Program page.
The Milken Institute is a nonprofit, nonpartisan think tank focused on accelerating measurable progress on the path to a meaningful life. With a focus on financial, physical, mental, and environmental health, we bring together the best ideas and innovative resourcing to develop blueprints for tackling some of our most critical global issues through the lens of what’s pressing now and what’s coming next. For more information, explore our site.
