Lincoln University of Missouri Selected as Exclusive State Host for SOAR HBCU Scholars Program
Lincoln University of Missouri has achieved a significant national milestone, becoming the only institution in the state — and one of only 16 nationwide — selected to host the Thurgood Marshall College Fund’s (TMCF) SOAR HBCU Scholars Program. This prestigious designation positions the Jefferson City campus as a primary hub for cultivating the next generation of high-achieving academic leaders.
The SOAR HBCU Scholars Program is a fully funded summer experience specifically designed for high-achieving high school juniors. By providing these students with direct access to the HBCU environment, the program aims to bridge the gap between secondary education and higher learning while showcasing the unique cultural and academic advantages of Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
Expanding Access to Higher Education
The selection of Lincoln University is not merely a win for the institution but a strategic opportunity for students across the region. As the sole Missouri host, the university will provide a curated environment where students can explore collegiate life, engage with faculty, and develop a roadmap for their future academic pursuits.
The program’s focus on high school juniors is intentional. By engaging students before they enter their senior year, the SOAR initiative helps them make informed decisions about college applications and scholarship opportunities, ensuring that talented students from diverse backgrounds are aware of the resources available at HBCUs.
The Role of the Thurgood Marshall College Fund
The program is powered by the Thurgood Marshall College Fund, a leading non-profit organization that supports Historically Black Colleges and Universities. TMCF focuses on empowering students through scholarships, leadership development, and career opportunities, ensuring that graduates from member institutions are competitive in a global workforce.
Lincoln University’s membership in the TMCF network has historically provided its students with expanded networking and funding opportunities. This latest partnership extends that impact to the pre-collegiate level, strengthening the pipeline of talent entering the university system.
A Legacy of Leadership in Jefferson City
Lincoln University’s selection for this program aligns with its deep-rooted history. Founded in 1866 by African-American veterans of the American Civil War, it stands as a public, land-grant institution dedicated to academic excellence and community service. Its unique origin as a school founded by formerly enslaved Black soldiers continues to inform its mission of empowerment and accessibility.
- Exclusive Host: Lincoln University is the only college in Missouri selected for the SOAR program.
- National Scale: Only 16 institutions across the United States were chosen to participate.
- Target Audience: The program is specifically for high-achieving high school juniors.
- Fully Funded: The summer experience is provided at no cost to the participating students.
- Strategic Goal: To increase HBCU enrollment and provide mentorship to future scholars.
Frequently Asked Questions
Who is eligible for the SOAR HBCU Scholars Program?
The program is designed for high-achieving high school juniors who demonstrate academic potential and an interest in attending a Historically Black College or University.
What does “fully funded” mean in this context?
A fully funded program typically means that the costs associated with the summer experience — such as tuition, lodging, and program materials — are covered by the Thurgood Marshall College Fund and the host institution.
Why is Lincoln University’s selection significant for Missouri?
Because it is the only state host, Lincoln University serves as the primary gateway for Missouri’s top high school talent to experience the HBCU model, potentially increasing the diversity and academic rigor of the state’s future collegiate cohorts.
Looking Ahead
As Lincoln University prepares to welcome these scholars, the focus remains on creating a sustainable pipeline of leadership. By integrating high school students into the university’s ecosystem early, the institution is not only promoting its own programs but is investing in the long-term socio-economic mobility of its students. This partnership marks a pivotal step in ensuring that Missouri’s brightest young minds have a clear path toward academic and professional success.