Black College Fund Helps Power a New Era at Paine College

Black College Funds have helped Paine cover scholarships, tuition discounts and operating expenses, ensuring students — many of them first-generation and low-income — could continue and graduate. “Without that support, several students would not be able to attend Paine College,” President Rev. Dr. Lester McCorn said. (Photo courtesy of Paine College)

By Wendy R. Cromwell

AUGUSTA, Ga. – Paine College is experiencing a renewal, thanks in part to the enduring support of The United Methodist Church’s Black College Fund, which leaders say has been essential to both the UM-related Historically Black College and University’s (HBCU) survival and mission.

In his first 100 days, President Rev. Dr. Lester McCorn launched a bold vision for revitalization. “The support of our Methodist brothers and sisters means everything to a small school with limited resources,” he said. “That $500,000 we received through the Black College Fund in 2024 is not just appreciated — it’s indispensable.”

The Rev. Dr. Lester McCorn, president of Paine College

The funds, administered through the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry (GBHEM), have helped Paine cover scholarships, tuition discounts and operating expenses, ensuring students — many of them first-generation and low-income — could continue and graduate. “Without that support, several students would not be able to attend Paine College,” McCorn said.

Founded through a historic partnership between the Methodist Episcopal Church South and the Christian Methodist Episcopal Church, Paine remains connected to its faith-based roots. “That connection reminds us that we’re part of a larger family,” McCorn said. “And with that support, we’re building something special — for our students, for Augusta and for the future.”

Beyond the campus gates, Paine is a deeply rooted institution in Augusta’s community. “Paine has been a cultural, educational and spiritual anchor for this city for generations,” McCorn said. “It’s not just an academic institution. It’s everything to a lot of people.” Alumni frequently share how Paine gave them a chance when no other institution would, changing the trajectory of their lives and families.

That legacy continues today through the college’s recovery and expansion efforts. After suffering more than $5 million in hurricane-related damages, Paine is using its 2025 capital fund grant of $275,000 to restore Graham Hall, a key residence facility. “We don’t have a big endowment, so grants and donations like this are critical,” McCorn said.

Adding strength to the college’s resurgence is a 10-year transformation plan backed by other key partners, including Augusta National Golf Club. The club has provided support for Paine’s golf programs, created the Lee Elder Scholarships, and invested in the college’s long-term institutional growth. “This level of partnership is rare,” McCorn said. “It shows people believe in what Paine is becoming.”

About the Black College Fund

The United Methodist Church expands access to quality education through the General Board of Higher Education and Ministry and the Black College Fund, supporting 11 affiliated Historically Black Colleges and Universities. As the largest church-based supporter of HBCUs, the fund provides essential resources for capital improvements, innovative programs, operating expenses, and initiatives that strengthen student success and institutional vitality.