In 2025, Huston-Tillotson University celebrated 150 years of service and transformation, supported in part by the Black College Fund (BCF) of The United Methodist Church (UMC).
President Dr. Melva K. Williams said BCF funding has been “transformational” for the private, United Methodist-related Historically Black College and University (HBCU), which does not receive state funding. The university ranks No. 1 among private HBCUs in Texas and No. 15 overall, according to Niche Colleges’ 2026 rankings.
“The UMC and Black College Fund support represents kindness,” Williams said. “The church and BCF work with us and trust us to manage our operations.”
Administered through the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry (GBHEM), Black College Fund contributions enabled Huston-Tillotson to make vital infrastructure upgrades, including replacing the HVAC system in the library and installing an elevator to ensure accessibility for students with disabilities.
“The elevator project was essential for a student in a wheelchair who had missed several classes,” Williams said. “Without the funding from the church, I’m not sure what we would have done.”
The university is also using BCF funds to advance its master plan, which outlines future construction and renovation needs. Huston-Tillotson is renting dormitory space from nearby St. Edward’s University and seeks to bring 155 students back to campus.
In 2022, the university launched the African Male Teachers Initiative, aimed at preparing 49,000 Black male educators to serve in classrooms with 5% funds from the Black College Fund. The program is now funded by Apple Inc. and provides a year of scholarship support to high-achieving freshmen who intend to pursue a career in education.
Huston-Tillotson continues to lean into its United Methodist roots. Williams said the university’s strategic plan may evolve, but its core values remain unchanged.
“Because of The United Methodist Church’s support, we truly have a future,” she said.
About the Black College Fund
The United Methodist Church expands access to quality education through the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry and the Black College Fund, supporting 11 affiliated Historically Black Colleges and Universities. As the largest church-based supporter of HBCUs, the fund provides essential resources for capital improvements, innovative programs, operating expenses, and initiatives that strengthen student success and institutional vitality.
About Huston-Tillotson University
Huston-Tillotson University, the first institution of higher education in Austin, Texas, has roots dating back to 1875. HT is an independent, church-related, historically black, four-year liberal arts institution located on a 23-acre tree-lined campus near downtown in East Austin. Huston-Tillotson University’s mission is to nurture a legacy of leadership and excellence in education, connecting knowledge, power, passion, and values. The University offers associate and master’s degrees in addition to Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees in more than 19 areas of study. Huston-Tillotson University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate and master’s degrees. HT is also an NC-SARA school.
11 Schools, 1 Call: How the BCF Sustains our HBCUs
This content was originally published by The General Board of Higher Education and Ministry; republished with permission by ResourceUMC on March 26, 2026.