Charles Barkley Foundation supports HBCUs, Auburn Forestry Program

Charles Barkley, whose road to fame began on the Auburn basketball team in the 1980s, is known not only for his hardwood heroism but also for his philanthropy off the court. Barkley’s namesake foundation has recently made gifts to the university, including to the School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences, in order to strengthen the relationship with Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

The legendary NBA star made the donations to Auburn after several years of supporting HBCUs. Barkley, a loud-and-proud Auburn grad, donated to Alabama A&M University, Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse College, Miles College, and Tuskegee University between 2016 and 2020, according to Teri Green.

Green reports Barkley’s goal to unite HBCUs with major programs at Auburn in order to encourage students to pursue graduate degrees on the Plains. “I just think what it’s costing these kids to go to college today is a travesty in this country, and I know historically black colleges are struggling. I wanted to do something to help them, and I’m going to continue to help them.”

With the funds, Auburn’s School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences has created the Charles Barkley Foundation Fellowship, which will give preference to students who have graduated with an undergrad degree from an HBCU.

In the same article, Green accounts Dean of the School of Forestry and Wildlife Science Janaki Alavalapati’s excitement for the opportunities to further diversify the department:

"Janaki Alavalapati, dean of the School of Forestry and Wildlife Sciences, said the Barkley Foundation gift goes beyond its dollar amount and represents a step toward attaining diversity within the school, which is an ongoing effort. Last summer, Alavalapati established a Diversity and Inclusion Coordination Team of faculty, staff and students to promote a more inclusive culture of diversity within the school.“This group’s mission is to consolidate our thoughts and develop and identify activities to promote diversity and inclusion within the school,” Alavalapati said. “Charles Barkley’s recent gift, which promotes the inclusion of students who have graduated from HBCUs, goes hand in hand with our ongoing efforts and will be a tremendous asset to this endeavor.”"

Charles Barkley continues to show himself to be a true Auburn man by supporting athletics but also by supporting the educational side of the university and for helping others find their way to the Plains.