Milwaukee-based Northwestern Mutual has announced a commitment of more than $2.5 million to 136 students pursuing higher education through its HBCU Connection Scholarship program and partnership with All-In Milwaukee. 

Over the next five years, the company will issue scholarships and grants to students from local pipeline schools pursuing higher education at historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). Northwestern Mutual will invest more than $500,000 in scholarships to 36 students. The inaugural cohort of nine recipients will each receive $7,500 annually their freshman and sophomore years, followed by paid corporate internship opportunities the summer before their junior and senior years, respectively.

In addition, All-In Milwaukee will receive $2 million in support of diverse, high-potential Milwaukee students. Northwest Mutual’s latest contribution to the organization will enable another 100 students to receive the financial, academic, social, wellness, and career-readiness support needed to attend and graduate from college. Many of these students will be first-generation college graduates with goals of building their own net worth and creating generational wealth.

“If we want to see change in our community, it’s imperative we invest in students who will pave the way for the generations to come,” said Northwestern Mutual Foundation president Steve Radke. “Our investment will provide these students with access to education and the opportunity to bring diverse perspectives and contributions to their prospective employers. Our commitment goes beyond financial aid; we offer authentic support throughout the entire process.”

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