HBCU president tells graduates their debt has been forgiven

The president of Wilberforce University, a historically Black college in Ohio, told its graduates on Saturday that their debt to the school was forgiven.

“We wish to give you a fresh start,” Elfred Anthony Pinkard told new graduates, The Washington Post reported on Wednesday. “Therefore, the Wilberforce University Board of Trustees has authorized me to forgive any debt.”

“Your accounts have been cleared,” Pinkard added. “And you don’t owe Wilberforce anything. Congratulations.”

A news release from the school says more than $375,000 was forgiven for 2020 and 2021 graduates.

The school gathered the funds to forgive the debt from Jack and Jill, Inc., United Negro College Fund Inc., and other organizations providing scholarships, according to the news release.

“I couldn’t believe it when he said it. It’s a blessing. I know God will be with me. I’m not worried. I can use that money and invest it into my future.” Rodman Allen, a 2021 graduate from the school, was quoted as saying in the release.

Graduates will still have to pay off their debt from state, federal or private loans.

“As these graduates begin their lives as responsible adults, we are honored to be able to give them a fresh start by relieving their student debt to the university,” Pinkard reportedly said.