The North Carolina Central University (NCCU) Creators Fund is a bold initiative launched by alumni Austin Henley, ‘08, Pierre Davis, ‘09, and DeAndres Royal, ‘10, to invest directly in students who dream of building their own creative paths. Whether in fashion, media, technology, art or digital content, the fund provides resources and recognition for students who want to turn their ideas into reality.
The fund will award up to $10,000 annually for the next three years, giving Eagles the financial space to pursue projects without being hindered by everyday expenses. This support allows students to focus on their craft while validating their ambitions.
“At NCCU, I grew into a creator, not in isolation but by being surrounded by a community of like-minded creative entrepreneurs who challenged and inspired me,” said Henley. “We wanted to provide a clear avenue for students to discover how they can express themselves and know that they have a supportive community behind them.”
Empowering Students Through Creativity
The founders believe that creativity is both an economic opportunity and a tool for community impact. Too often, students with big ideas are forced to put them aside due to financial pressures or a lack of support. The Creators Fund ensures those ideas have a chance to grow.
Beyond scholarships, the fund represents a cultural shift—a recognition that Eagle creators are not just artists or entrepreneurs, but innovators shaping industries and communities. By institutionalizing support for creativity, the fund positions NCCU as a hub where ideas are not only born but nurtured.
Honoring a Legacy of Eagle Creators
Henley, Davis and Royal drew inspiration from the long line of NCCU creators who came before—figures like the late André Leon Talley, fashion journalist, stylist and creative director; music producer 9th Wonder; and recording artist Sunshine Anderson, who used their talents to influence culture on a global scale. The Creators Fund continues that tradition, connecting today’s students with a legacy of Eagle excellence.
The founders see NCCU as a place full of “hidden talent,” where creativity often thrives under the surface. Their vision is to shine a light on that talent and ensure it is celebrated, supported, and elevated.
A Vision for the Future
In the coming years, the Creators Fund is expected to expand beyond financial support to include mentorship, symposiums and collaborative opportunities. The founders imagine a community where alumni and students connect across generations, creating an ecosystem that drives innovation long after graduation.
Ultimately, they see a future where NCCU is nationally recognized as a creative incubator—a place where students not only pursue degrees but also launch businesses, build cultural movements and contribute to society through their ideas.
Support the NCCU Creators Fund today. Visit nccu.edu/institutional-advancement/giving-online