Central State University Secures More Than $400,000 in Emergency Student Support Through UNCF Partnership

Posted Jan 12 2026
a bird's eye view of the Central State University campus as featured by TheGrio

Central State University has strengthened its commitment to student success through a new partnership with the United Negro College Fund, securing more than $400,000 in emergency student support funding for the 2025–2026 academic year.

The funding will provide one-time emergency grants to eligible students who experience unexpected financial challenges that could otherwise interrupt their academic progress. Administered by UNCF, the initiative is part of a national emergency aid program supported by corporate partners, including FanDuel Group, Inc..

“These funds allow us to respond quickly when students encounter unforeseen circumstances that put their education at risk,” said Rebecca Kocher, Vice President for Institutional Advancement at Central State University. “Our partnership with UNCF ensures this support reaches students efficiently and in alignment with our commitment to student success and retention.”

Emergency grants may be used to address urgent needs such as health-related expenses, transportation, food insecurity, technology access, and other critical educational costs. Awards will be administered by Central State University’s Office of Financial Aid in accordance with both institutional and UNCF guidelines.

University leadership emphasized the importance of providing timely, responsive support to students navigating financial uncertainty.

“At Central State University, our students’ success and well-being are at the center of everything we do,” said Morakinyo A.O. Kuti, President of Central State University. “Through our continued partnership with UNCF, we are able to provide support when unexpected challenges arise and help ensure that temporary financial hardships do not stand in the way of our students continuing their education.”

The initiative reflects Central State University’s ongoing collaboration with UNCF to advance student access, persistence, and degree completion, while reinforcing the University’s broader mission to remove barriers and support students throughout their academic journey.