HBCUv

The UNCF is a non-profit that works to create a future where all Americans have equal access to a college education, specifically focusing on empowering Black students through HBCUs.

Each year, the UNCF’s network of 37 member HBCUs graduate more than 60,000 students. With the COVID-19 pandemic and the move to remote learning, HBCUs found themselves lagging behind—only 20% of HBCUs offer online degrees compared to 54% of other higher ed institutions.

HBCUv (V for virtual) is a custom online learning platform that draws from the rich community and legacies of HBCUs, providing a space for students to thrive. The initial version of HBCUv was designed and developed with 9 partner institutions and is scheduled to launch in the fall of 2024.

I joined the project during the design phase, after the strategy team had already conducted a thorough ethnographic research study and created initial drafts of the core feature set for launch. My main objective as the UX lead was to validate, refine, and see the design work through the development cycle, while working around logistical challenges and a tight timeline.