Four Virginia HBCUs to receive support from Dominion

Hampton University, Norfolk State University, Virginia State University and Virginia Union University are among 11 historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs) that will share $25 million in support from Dominion Energy Inc., the Richmond-based utility company announced Thursday.

The awarded funds — precise amounts going to each institution were not disclosed — are part of a $35 million higher education initiative announced earlier in the month. In addition to the $25 million “HBCU Promise” program, Dominion will create a $10 million scholarship fund for African American students and other underrepresented minorities across its service territory.

Along with the four Virginia universities, seven HBCUs in North Carolina, Ohio and South Carolina will receive funding over the next six years, according to a news release. The funding will go toward four general areas: operating needs, urgent capital needs, endowment and scholarships. Some details are still being worked out.

The 11 colleges and universities were chosen through a variety of factors: earlier partnerships with Dominion, significant customer presence and opportunities to make an immediate impact, the news release said.

“We have all been witness to our country’s evolving conversation on race and social justice,” Dominion Chairman, President and CEO Thomas F. Farrell II said in a statement. “Investing in these important institutions — which serve as a springboard for social and economic mobility for so many — is one way we can help. We have actually partnered with HBCUs for nearly 40 years, offering volunteer and financial support.”