By Staff
Tell us about your position and organization.
As a Major Gifts Officer for the United Negro College Fund (UNCF), I play a pivotal role in raising funds to support students of color pursuing higher education. UNCF, a nonprofit with an illustrious 80-year history, is dedicated to providing opportunities for students of color to attend colleges and universities. It’s a privilege to contribute to this noble cause and empower the next generation of leaders through education.
Why do you feel HBCU’s are so important?
I firmly believe that Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are indispensable pillars of American history. These institutions have shouldered the responsibility of educating students of color when they were barred from attending predominantly white institutions (PWIs). Today, HBCUs provide not only students of color but also individuals from all socioeconomic backgrounds with equal educational opportunities. They boast the highest percentage of African American graduates, further highlighting their vital role in empowering communities of color. The significance of HBCUs in educating and uplifting marginalized communities continues to expand, underscoring their enduring importance in our society.
Why is education important to you?
Education holds profound importance for me as it has illuminated the path to my current and future successes. It has provided me with the essential understanding needed to navigate this constantly evolving world. With a solid educational foundation, I have embraced a lifelong journey of learning, recognizing that there is always more to discover and understand.
Given the expense of earning a college degree, what support is available for those who need financial assistance?
Access to higher education has unfortunately become financially out of reach for many households across the United States. Fortunately, there are several nonprofits dedicated to alleviating this burden and assisting students in pursuing their higher education goals. One such organization with an impressive 80-year track record is the United Negro College Fund (UNCF), which has been instrumental in supporting students of color in their college and university aspirations. Additionally, I would recommend exploring grants and federal assistance programs as viable options for funding higher education endeavors. These resources can help make college more affordable and attainable for students from diverse socioeconomic backgrounds.
What does success look like for you?
To me, success is defined by the impact you have on others and the number of people you have helped and uplifted along the way. It’s about using your abilities and resources to make a positive difference in the lives of those around you, whether it’s through mentorship, support, or simply lending a helping hand. True success is measured not only by personal achievements but also by the collective progress and well-being of the community you serve.
What advice would you give someone to maximize their degree?
The most valuable advice I can offer someone seeking to maximize their degree is to deeply understand the impact they aspire to make in society. It’s crucial to recognize that the degree itself is not what defines them, but rather, they have the power to shape and elevate the significance of their degree through their actions and contributions. Additionally, I would advise them to stay attuned to the direction in which the world is evolving and to identify how they can skillfully position themselves within this ever-changing landscape. By aligning their academic pursuits with their passion for making a difference and their awareness of global trends, they can truly leverage their education to effect meaningful change and success.
About
Elvonte Patton is a dedicated professional with a passion for education and community empowerment. He holds two degrees from Texas Southern University, a prominent institution in Houston, Texas. Elvonte is a proud member of Alpha Phi Alpha Fraternity Incorporated, where he continues to uphold the values of service and leadership.
Currently, Elvonte serves as a Major Gifts Officer for the United Negro College Fund (UNCF), he has excelled in fundraising for the past eight years. His expertise lies in political and nonprofit fundraising, where he has demonstrated a remarkable ability to cultivate relationships and secure significant contributions to support educational initiatives.
Driven by a profound commitment to higher education and the advancement of historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), Elvonte aspires to one day serve as an HBCU President. This ambitious goal reflects his desire to lead institutions that play a pivotal role in shaping the future of diverse and talented students.
Elvonte’s journey exemplifies a steadfast dedication to uplifting underserved communities through education and philanthropy. With his unwavering determination and wealth of experience, he continues to make meaningful strides towards achieving his lifelong mission of empowering future generations.
Social Media:
LinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/in/elvontepatton/
