Page 36 - TMCF 2024 Annual Report

DR. N. JOYCE PAYNE CENTER FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE
The Dr. N. Joyce Payne Center for Social Justice
(Payne Center) advances equity through rigorous, evidence-based research and innovative programs that confront systemic barriers to opportunity. It translates findings into practical policy solutions and measurable outcomesforcommunitiesfacingpersistentobstacles. Working with diverse stakeholders, the Payne Center develops sustainable, research-driven strategies and elevates the contributions of historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs) to national and global problem-solving.
Its philosophy is stakeholder-centered: persons most affected by inequity inform our priorities, methods and measures of success. Through deep collaboration among researchers, policymakers and practitioners, the Payne Center produces actionable insights,
pilots interventions and scales what works. The aim is meaningful, lasting change that strengthens institutions, informs decision-makers and expands opportunity for all.
2024 HIGHLIGHTS
Black Thriving in America: 2024 Release
• Published “Black Thriving in America: 2024,” the second-annual installment in the Payne Center’s long-term study with Gallup.
• Expanded analysis to include new measures of Black American thriving across education, health and community well-being.
• Convened national leaders, HBCU faculty and policymakers to discuss findings and implications for racial equity.
Strategic Partnerships
• AERDF Partnership: Launched joint initiatives advancing equity-centered educational R&D for HBCUs.
• Fulbright Association Partnership: Opened pathways for Payne Center fellows and researchers to engage globally.
DR. N. JOYCE PAYNE CENTER FOR SOCIAL JUSTICE
THURGOOD MARSHALL COLLEGE FUND
36 2024 ANNUAL REPORT
• Journal Editorial Board:
Established an editorial platform for peer-reviewed scholarship on race, philanthropy and higher education.
• MacArthur Foundation Pilot and Second-Year Cohorts: Completed the pilot year of the MacArthur Criminal Justice Summer Internship Program, placing 10 interns from seven HBCUs in immersive justice reform projects.
Publications & Scholarship
• Payne Center Book Series, Volume 1: Released “Creating New Possibilities for the Future of HBCUs,” edited by Drs. Terrell Strayhorn, Michael Williams, and Royel Johnson.
• Summit on Climate Change and Black Communities: Hosted national convening addressing the intersections of environmental justice, climate policy and Black community well-being.
2024 Media Coverage
• Black Enterprise – New York City Students to be Introduced to Black Studies This Fall
• Diverse: Issues in Higher Education – Advancing Social Justice Through Scholarly Work
• Education Week – How These Teachers Build Curriculum ‘Beyond Black History’
• GlobeNewswire – Black Thriving in America Report Dives Deep Into Black Life Experiences