Alumni support is the lifeblood of HBCUs. They play a crucial role in sustaining its legacy, financial stability, and continued impact on future generations.
Rashaun Williams, a venture capitalist and part-owner of the Atlanta Falcons, is doing his part to ensure that his alma mater continues to inspire and uplift the next generation.
During this year’s A Candle in the Dark Gala, Williams, who was honored with the Bennie Award in the Trailblazer category, pledged to donate his entire salary for the next four years to Morehouse College—the institution he credits with shaping his life.
During his acceptance speech, Williams discussed his journey from the South Side of Chicago to financial success, sharing how Morehouse College played a pivotal role in his development.
“Morehouse was my first investor. You’re looking at the return on the investment that you get when you invest in Morehouse right now,” Williams said. “When my father wasn’t there for me as a kid, Morehouse picked up the slack. I learned how to tie a tie at Morehouse, eat at a dinner table… My city failed me, but where Chicago failed me, Morehouse picked me up.”
“For four years, Morehouse poured into me. And in return, I would like to donate my entire salary for the next four years back to Morehouse,” Williams shared at the end of his speech.
Williams’ journey is nothing short of inspiring. Raised in a financially unstable household, he persevered through adversity and graduated summa cum laude from Morehouse College with a degree in economics. He went on to make a name for himself on Wall Street, working at financial giants like Goldman Sachs and Deutsche Bank.
A self-made millionaire, Williams built his legacy in venture capital, founding multiple firms, including Dixsville Partners, Value Investment Group, and Queensbridge Venture Partners. Through these ventures, he has invested in some of the biggest companies in the world, including Lyft, Dropbox, and Ring. His business acumen and ability to spot promising startups have earned him a net worth estimated in the hundreds of millions.
Williams has consistently prioritized mentorship, education, and philanthropy. He established the Kemet Institute, which provides financial literacy and entrepreneurship training to underprivileged communities.
Williams’ involvement in NFL ownership as a limited partner of the Atlanta Falcons makes him one of the few Black investors in major professional sports franchises.
Williams’ donation is part of a larger fundraising effort that saw Morehouse College raise a record-breaking $6.8 million in scholarships for students at this year’s A Candle in the Dark Gala. Williams encouraged others to support the institution that shaped him.
“For the school that took me in when I needed a home, self-esteem, education, brotherhood, mentors, hope, and community—I hope to one day be able to give her a return on her investment!” Williams shared on Instagram.
