The Black Leadership Network will promote the retention and persistence of students engaged in the Black Leadership Network by providing funding for hardships and/or unexpected circumstances. 

Eligibility Requirements:

1. Be a current BLN student 
2. Be able to demonstrate a financial need (supporting documentation will be required. Appropriate documentation may include, copies of bills, lease, etc.)
3. Must have exhausted all other sources of financial aid

Eligible expenses may include, but are not limited to:

1. Medical, food, housing, utilities, technology expenses, course materials and other expenses included in the student’s cost of attendance
2. Conference registration fees, networking event fees, admission exam fees for entrance to dental, medical, law or other professional programs, to also include deposit fees for continued education

*These are general guidelines, and each request will be reviewed by the committee.

All Requests:

• Applicants may be required to submit additional supporting documentation as deemed necessary by the committee to receive final approval of request.
• All funds awarded will be disbursed to the student account or paid directly to a third-party vendor.

Application Process

1. Students will complete and submit the BLN Emergency Fund application. Applicants should also provide a statement of financial need/hardship and any supporting documentation. Please be advised that submittal does not guarantee approval.
2. Student will receive notification via email of approval or denial within 10 business days of applying.
3. The BLN emergency support funding is not intended to be a means of ongoing support, but for hardships, unexpected and/or financial emergencies.
4. The maximum amount per student is not to exceed $1,000 per degree.
5. Preference will be given to first time applicants.
6. If funded, recipient is required to meet with the Assistant Director, Diversity Initiatives and/or the Assistant Director, Foundation Scholarships.
7. There are no appeals for emergency funding decisions.
8. Approval of funds is always based upon available funding that is provided by generous donors to USF.

CLICK HERE TO APPLY

If you have questions regarding the BLN emergency funding application, please contact Walter Jennings at jennings@usf.edu or 813-974-1978.