In a significant move to enhance community well-being and educational opportunities, Paul Quinn College, an HBCU based in Dallas, has been awarded a $1.5 million grant from the T.D. Jakes Foundation, in collaboration with Wells Fargo. This funding will support a groundbreaking housing and mixed-use development project aimed at expanding housing capacity by an impressive 300 percent and creating a vibrant community hub for students, their families and the surrounding Southern Dallas neighborhood.
A vision for community and education
According to Essence, Dr. Michael J. Sorrell, President of Paul Quinn College, emphasized the transformative nature of this project, stating, “This is so much more than a traditional real estate project or campus housing development — it’s a statement about what higher education can be for all of us. We are building a city within our campus walls. It will be a community that inspires, innovates and invests in its people.” This vision reflects a commitment to not only serve the college’s students but also to uplift the broader community.
Addressing critical needs
The ambitious initiative is designed to tackle several pressing issues, including housing, food security and transportation. The development will feature: student and family housing, retail and restaurant spaces, parks and outdoor meeting areas, and classrooms and educational facilities.
Moreover, it will serve the Highland Hills community and local schools, such as KIPP Oak Cliff Academy and Dr. Frederick D. Haynes III Global Preparatory Academy. This comprehensive approach ensures that the project meets the diverse needs of the community while fostering a supportive environment for education.
A game-changer for the community
The T.D. Jakes Foundation views this initiative as a potential game-changer for the area. This sentiment highlights the importance of collaborative efforts in creating sustainable solutions for community challenges.
Innovative academic programs
In addition to the community development project, Paul Quinn College is also making strides academically. The college has partnered with Jakes Divinity School to launch its first-ever graduate program: the T.D. Jakes MBA. This program is notable as it is the only accredited MBA offered by an HBCU in the Dallas-Fort Worth area, equipping students with essential skills for leadership roles in business and entrepreneurship.
Eradicating generational poverty
These initiatives align with Paul Quinn College’s broader mission to eradicate generational poverty. According to Essence, Sorrell stated, “This is about creating opportunities and investing in people. With partners like T.D. Jakes Foundation and Wells Fargo, we’re taking bold steps to ensure our students and community thrive.” This commitment to social equity and empowerment is crucial in addressing the systemic challenges faced by many in the community.
The $1.5 million grant awarded to Paul Quinn College marks a pivotal moment in the institution’s history and its ongoing efforts to foster community development and educational excellence. By addressing housing, food security and transportation needs, the college is not only enhancing the student experience but also uplifting the entire Southern Dallas community. With innovative academic programs and a strong focus on eradicating poverty, Paul Quinn College is setting a powerful example of how HBCUs can lead the way in creating sustainable and impactful change.
