HomeFree-USA’s Center for Financial Advancement® has its roots planted firmly in the rich soil of Fisk University. Founded in 2017, the program emerged with a clear mission: to impact the lives of students at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) by enriching their knowledge in financial literacy, professional development, leadership, and homeownership.
The inception of Center for Financial Advancement® was marked by the dedication of just two visionaries, Jim and Marcia Griffin, who recognized the lack of resources and knowledge offered to HBCU students. The program blossomed with Gwen Garnett as the Executive Director and Nicholas Whiteside as the Student Director and the program’s first scholar, who took on the ambitious task of empowering students. Their journey began with visits to various HBCU campuses, where they spent days unlocking the potential of financial freedom for countless students. The seeds they planted during these visits began to sprout, nurturing a new generation of financially literate and empowered individuals.
As the Center for Financial Advancement® flourished, so did its team. In 2021, two new members joined: LuWanna Williams, who stepped into the role of University Director, and Chardonnay Lee, who became the Program Analyst. Their addition expanded the team to four members, each bringing unique expertise and passion to advance the Center’s mission.
Under the guidance of this dedicated team, the Center has continued to thrive. Its curriculum has evolved, partnerships have expanded, and events have grown in both number and impact. The influence of the Center now stretches across numerous HBCU campuses, fostering an environment where financial literacy and professional growth are accessible to all students.
By 2024, the Center for Financial Advancement® proudly partnered with 16 HBCUs, a testament to its success and the unwavering commitment of its team. The program remains focused on the future, aiming to expand even further and ensure that its legacy of financial empowerment and leadership grows stronger with each passing year.
