The United Negro College Fund (UNCF) announced a $25 million software grant from Microsoft Corp. that will help UNCF’s 39 member colleges and universities, including Paul Quinn College in Dallas, more effectively implement technology in the classroom and across campus, and enhance the educational experiences of the 60,000 students that attend these institutions.
The grant is part of UNCF’s Technology Enhancement Capital Campaign (TECC) that was launched in March 2000 to strengthen the technology capacities of UNCF’s member institutions by bolstering software, hardware, training and faculty development, and technical support. Microsoft helped launch the campaign two years ago with a $50 million software donation which included the latest versions of Microsoft’s successful Office (Word, Excel and Powerpoint) package for Windows and Macintosh platforms.

“UNCF has a wonderful relationship with the Microsoft Corporation which has contributed nearly $100 million in cash and software to TECC and other UNCF initiatives over the last several years,” said William H. Gray, president and CEO of UNCF. “We are extremely appreciative of Microsoft’s continued support and commitment to closing the digital divide and expanding educational opportunities for the deserving young men and women that attend UNCF institutions.”

This latest donation, which includes Windows XP operating systems, will enable UNCF’s member institutions to implement new business and administrative practices, expand technical learning initiatives, and maintain a standard of technological excellence that is up-to-date and competitive with majority institutions.

“This is tremendous. Microsoft has demonstrated continued commitment to bridging the digital divide by providing UNCF member institutions with up to date software opportunities,” said Velda Turnley, director of Educational Technology at Paul Quinn College. “This latest generosity means that we can continue to be consistent and relevant with educational and administrative technology in the Paul Quinn College community. Thanks to Microsoft for stepping up to the plate once again.”

Founded in 1975, Microsoft (Nasdaq “MSFT”) is the worldwide leader in software for personal and business computing. The company offers a wide range of products and services designed to empower people through great software any time, any place and on any device.
At Microsoft, we believe that technology can help everyone realize their full potential,” Bill Gates, CEO of Microsoft said. “It’s our hope that today’s donations will enable the UNCF to enhance delivery of services to its constituents nationwide, as well as create opportunities for local students today and for a lifetime.”

Founded in 1944, the United Negro College Fund is the nation’s oldest and most successful minority higher education assistance organization. UNCF has raised nearly $1.8 billion to support its 39 member institutions and has helped more than 300,000 students earn undergraduate and graduate degrees. Currently, UNCF administers more than 450 programs, including scholarship programs, mentoring, summer enrichment, curriculum and faculty development and leadership development. For more information about UNCF, visit www.uncf.org.
Paul Quinn College is one of the oldest Historically Black Colleges west of the Mississippi River and is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools. For more information please visit www.pqc.edu or call 214/302-3684