HBCU Launches Initiative to Transform Financial Literacy and Empower Generational Wealth

Stackwell at Hampton

In an ambitious effort to bolster financial literacy and investment opportunities, Hampton University is proud to announce the expansion of its groundbreaking Hampton Investment Program in collaboration with Stackwell, a pioneering fintech platform focused on narrowing the racial wealth gap. Originally launched in 2022 for first-year students, the program has now broadened its reach to support students across all class years and the wider Hampton community, including faculty, staff, alumni, and parents.

Building on the success of the initial pilot phase, which provided foundational investment education to freshmen, the revamped program aims to equip up to 500 Hampton students with funded investment accounts. Each participating student will receive a free Stackwell account along with $150 in seed funding—an increase from the previous $25. This infusion of resources signifies Hampton’s commitment to empowering its students with the tools necessary for financial wellness and generational wealth building through informed investment practices.

“At Hampton University, we’re deeply committed to empowering our students and the broader community through financial education and investment opportunities,” said President Darrell K. Williams. “The expansion of the Hampton Investment Program, in partnership with Stackwell, represents a significant step forward in our mission to promote financial wellness and generational wealth.”

In addition to providing enhanced funding for student investors, the program features comprehensive investment education workshops. Participants can also access Stackwell’s in-app Learning Center, which offers resources covering crucial topics like saving, credit management, and setting financial goals. 

Sharing the Resources

Moreover, the expansion opens the door for up to 800 members of the broader Hampton community—including faculty, staff, and alumni—to benefit from fee-waived investment accounts and access to investment education resources. 

Trevor Rozier-Byrd, Founder and CEO of Stackwell, expressed enthusiasm for the continued partnership: “The expansion of this program means that more of the Hampton community can invest and learn alongside Stackwell to build a thriving Hampton community. We’re excited to see you on campus this year!”

The partnership with Stackwell complements Hampton’s existing financial education frameworks, such as those offered by the Society for Financial Education and Professional Development. These initiatives prepare participants to apply their knowledge in real-world scenarios, laying the groundwork for financial success.

As the Hampton Investment Program enters its third year, it stands out as a pioneering model for universities nationwide that aims to elevate financial literacy and support community members in their investment journeys. Students interested in obtaining a funded investment account can apply through a simple interest form.