Rashaun Williams, a venture capitalist and part-owner of the Atlanta Falcons, is giving back to his alma mater in a major way by pledging to donate his entire salary for the next four years to Morehouse College.
While it is estimated, but not confirmed, his net worth is $100 million. There is no public record on how much he earns annually, and he has not confirmed how much he would donate. The Atlanta Falcons’ revenue in 2023 was $585 million, according to Statista.
Major Donation for Morehouse
Williams is a limited Falcons partner and the specific details about his ownership percentage have not been publicly disclosed.
This generous contribution underscores the critical role alumni play in sustaining historically Black colleges and universities, ensuring their legacy and impact on future generations.
During this year’s A Candle in the Dark Gala, Williams, who was honored with the Bennie Award in the Trailblazer category, credited Morehouse with shaping his life and inspiring his success.
In his acceptance speech, Williams reflected on his journey from Chicago’s South Side to financial success, underscoring Morehouse’s role in his development.
“Morehouse was my first investor. You’re looking at the return on investment when you invest in Morehouse,” Williams said. “When my father wasn’t there for me as a kid, Morehouse picked up the slack. I learned how to tie a tie at Morehouse, eat at a dinner table… My city failed me, but where Chicago failed me, Morehouse picked me up.”
Williams capped his speech with a powerful commitment.
“For four years, Morehouse poured into me. And in return, I would like to donate my entire salary for the next four years back to Morehouse.”
His journey is one of resilience. Raised in financial hardship, he persevered and graduated summa cum laude from Morehouse with a degree in economics. He went on to Wall Street, working at Goldman Sachs and Deutsche Bank before making his mark in venture capital.
A self-made millionaire, Williams founded multiple investment firms, including Dixsville Partners, Value Investment Group, and Queensbridge Venture Partners, which he started with rapper Nas. The revenue for the active firms are not readily available. He has backed major companies such as Lyft, Dropbox, and Ring, with his business acumen helping him amass a net worth estimated in the hundreds of millions.
Beyond financial success, Williams prioritizes mentorship, education, and philanthropy. He founded the Kemet Institute, which provides financial literacy and entrepreneurship training to underserved communities. His involvement as a limited partner in the Atlanta Falcons also makes him one of the few Black investors in major professional sports franchises.
His donation is part of a broader fundraising effort that saw Morehouse College raise a record-breaking $6.8 million in scholarships at this year’s gala. Williams urged others to support the institution that molded him.
“For the school that took me in when I needed a home, self-esteem, education, brotherhood, mentors, hope, and community — I hope to one day be able to give her a return on her investment!” he wrote on Instagram.
Williams’ contribution exemplifies the power of alumni giving, reinforcing the vital role graduates play in sustaining HBCUs. His gift not only supports Morehouse students but also serves as an inspiration for others to invest in the institutions that shaped their success.
