Delta Sigma Theta’s Jessica Brown is Changing The World One HBCU Tour at a Time

Jessica L. Brown, a soror of Delta Sigma Theta Sorority, Inc. and a graduate of Howard University, has made herself known by her commitment to helping students navigate the complexities of financing a college education. As the founder of College Gurl and president of The College Gurl Foundation, Brown has dedicated herself to ensuring that all students—particularly those from underserved communities—have access to the resources they need to make informed decisions about their futures.

A Fall 2020 initiate of the Federal City Alumnae Chapter of Delta Sigma Theta and graduate of Howard University and Strayer University, Brown is currently pursuing her PhD in Higher Education Administration, furthering her commitment to education both personally and professionally. Through her nonprofit organization, The College Gurl Foundation, based in Washington, D.C., she works to provide minority students in the Washington Metropolitan area with the tools they need to succeed.

Each year, she takes a bus full of students on a HBCU college tour to explore their futures while also getting out of their local community to see the nation. The College Gurl Foundation’s Fall 2023 College Tour gave students the chance to visit a range of colleges and institutions, including Elon University, Winston-Salem State University, and Clark Atlanta University. The tour also provided unique cultural and professional experiences, with stops at Atlanta City Hall, Tyler Perry Studios, and SpelHouse Homecoming. The foundation’s programs are designed not only to expose students to higher education opportunities but also to empower them to break generational cycles and create lasting social change in their communities.

Brown’s work as a financial aid expert has gained also national attention. She is regularly invited to speak at schools, universities, and organizations across the country. Her expertise has also been featured in numerous media outlets, including Good Morning America, MSNBC, The Tamron Hall Show, and FOX Business Network. Major brands such as AT&T, Dark & Lovely, and Truist have supported her efforts, recognizing the impact of her work on the lives of students and families across the country.

In addition to her role as an advocate for education, Brown has received numerous awards for her philanthropic efforts. In 2024, she was named Woman of Power by the U.S. Black Chambers, Inc., and received the Woman of Excellence Award from WKYS 93.9. Her work has been recognized by prominent figures such as Rev. Al Sharpton, who awarded her the 2022 Loudmouth Award for her advocacy. Other honors include the 2020 Mayor Bowser DC HOPE Award, the 2020 HBCU Buzz Top 30 Under 30 recognition, and the 2020 WHUR 96.3 McDonald’s DMV Black Excellence Award.

Through her books, How to Pay for College When You’re Broke and College Girl’s First College Tour, Brown aims to demystify the financial aid process and inspire students from an early age to think about college as a realistic goal. Her publications have become essential resources for families navigating the often daunting task of financing higher education.

In a time of rising education costs and increasing financial barriers for students, Jessica L. Brown’s work stands out as a beacon of hope. Her dedication to providing students with the tools they need to succeed is creating pathways to success for the next generation, ensuring that their futures are filled with opportunity and possibility.

Currently Brown is raising $50,000 for her college tour this month where she will take 26 Washington DC area students to multiple HBCUs. If you are interested in donating, click here.