Hennessy Fellows Program Cohort 7 (2025)

Omran Aburayya
May 8
3 min read

If you're a high-achieving graduate student from a Historically Black College or University (HBCU) or a Predominantly Black Institution (PBI), the Hennessy Fellows Program Cohort 7 (2025) is now accepting applications. This prestigious initiative, a collaboration between the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) and Hennessy, is designed to cultivate the next generation of diverse corporate leaders through financial support and immersive professional development experiences.

🎓 Hennessy Fellows program Summary

Location: United States (various locations)
Host Institution: Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) in partnership with Hennessy
Study Level: Graduate (MBA)
Target Group: Graduate students from HBCUs and PBIs
Fields of Study: Business Administration (MBA)
Award Value and Coverage:
- Up to $40,000 in tuition support ($20,000 per year for two years)
- $10,000 stipend ($5,000 per year)
- Access to curated corporate development experiences
- Online training forums and immersive boot camps
- Networking opportunities with industry leaders
Duration: 2 years (aligned with MBA program duration)
Application Deadline: July 1, 2025
Start Date: Fall 2025 (commensurate with MBA program start)
Eligible To: Graduate students aged 21 or older at the time of application

🧭 Scholarship Overview

The Hennessy Fellows Program is an unprecedented $10 million initiative aimed at equipping the next generation of diverse C-suite leaders. The program offers a comprehensive leadership development experience that includes:

Online Academy: A first-of-its-kind platform providing transparent insights and resources to help students navigate corporate America.
Immersive Boot Camp: An intensive program designed to enhance leadership skills and prepare fellows for real-world business challenges.
Networking Opportunities: Access to a network of industry leaders and peers to foster collaboration and mentorship.

These components are designed to bridge the gap between academic knowledge and practical corporate experience, preparing fellows for leadership roles in various industries.

🎁 Fellowship Benefits

Financial Support:
- Up to $40,000 in tuition assistance over two years
- $10,000 stipend over two years
Professional Development:
- Curated corporate development experiences
- Access to online training forums
- Participation in an immersive boot camp
- Networking opportunities with industry leaders
Academic Support:
- Assistance in remaining in good academic standing throughout the MBA program.

✅ Eligibility Criteria

To be considered for the Hennessy Fellows Program Cohort 7, applicants must:

Be 21 years of age or older at the time of application
Be accepted or applied to an MBA program at one of the following priority institutions:
- Clark Atlanta University
- Howard University
- Morgan State University
- North Carolina A&T State University
- Prairie View A&M University
- Southern University
Remain in good academic standing throughout the program
Be able to participate in and successfully complete all program-related activities
Applicants attending other schools may also be considered if they meet all additional criteria.

📝 Application Procedure

To apply for the Hennessy Fellows Program Cohort 7, applicants must submit:

Current Professional Resume: Highlighting academic achievements and professional experiences.
Student Transcript: Unofficial transcripts are acceptable.
Essay (500–750 words): Responding to the prompt: "Great leaders navigate challenges, inspire others, and drive meaningful change. Reflect on a time when you stepped into a leadership role during a difficult situation—what obstacles did you face, how did your leadership style and core values shape your approach, and how did you motivate those around you to achieve a positive outcome?"
HireVue Video Interview: Addressing the question: "As a prospective Hennessy Fellow, how will this program refine your leadership skills, expand your impact, and help you build a legacy of equity and excellence? How will you leverage the mentorship, resources, and network of the Hennessy Fellows Program to create meaningful change in your industry and community?"