HOLLY SPRINGS, MS – Rust College junior, Hardest Vaughn, was selected by the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) to receive a free iPad as a part of their #PassTheTorch4HBCUs Social Media Campaign.
UNCF hosted a social media challenge during November, homecoming season, for all students attending historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs). The challenge consisted of recording a 30 to 60-second video explaining the importance of HBCUs and why the student chose to attend one while showcasing how they’re making a difference on their college campus.
In Vaughn’s video, he explained how he transferred from a 2-year community college to Rust College, a 4-year institution, to experience the culture of an HBCU. “One of the highlights of my HBCU experience is 'Hump Day',” Vaughn stated. “Every Wednesday, students gather on the plaza to enjoy music, karaoke, Greek performances and line dancing.”
UNCF reached out to Rust College on January 4, 2023, with a message that read: “We are thrilled to reach out to you in hopes of awarding the student in your video, Hardest Vaughn, with an iPad to help him continue to excel during his academic journey.” "I had fun with this challenge, but I’m also glad that I was able to express why I support HBCUs and, of course, why I attend the illustrious Rust College.” Though Vaughn did not know that the challenge was actually a competition for a prize, he stated, “I’m very excited to win the iPad. Thank you, UNCF!”
About Rust College Rust College is the oldest most prestigious historically black college in Mississippi founded in 1866 by the Freedmen’s Aid Society of the Methodist Episcopal Church. Offering degree programs in business, education, humanities, science and mathematics, and social science. Rust College equips and inspires students for excellence and service in their communities and throughout the world. Located in Holly Springs, MS, just 35 miles southeast of Memphis, Tennessee, Rust College is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges to award associate and baccalaureate degrees. For more information about Rust College, call (662) 252-8000, ext. 4915, (662) 544-0950 cell or visit www.rustcollege.edu. ###
