( ENSPIRE Community Spotlight ) Disney on the Yard Ignites Inspiration and Career Pathways
The atmosphere at the United Negro College Fund (UNCF)’s 16th annual Student Leadership Conference in May was already buzzing with ambition and potential. Over 125 brilliant students from Historically Black Colleges & Universities (HBCUs) gathered, poised to receive invaluable training before embarking on summer internships with esteemed Fortune 500 companies like Best Buy Corporate, Disney, and National Geographic. This conference is a pivotal moment, shaping the next generation of leaders and innovators.
But on Thursday, May 29, 2025, Day 2 of the conference unfolded with an extraordinary surprise that brought an eruption of joy and excitement: Disney on the Yard delivered a truly magical moment! As students gathered for their luncheon, Drum Major Mickey Mouse marched in, heralded by a traditional HBCU halftime song. The energy was electric as students leaped to their feet, cheering and clamoring for photos with the iconic character. The 2025 group of Disney Interns, alongside the entire Disney team, also greeted the thrilled scholars.
This heartwarming surprise underscored the profound commitment of initiatives like Disney on the Yard. Launched by The Walt Disney Company, this program actively engages and supports HBCUs and their students by creating vital career opportunities, providing mentorship, and fostering crucial connections within the entertainment, media, and technology industries. It’s a testament to Disney’s broader commitment to diversity, equity, and inclusion, helping students navigate and excel in their chosen career paths.
The impact of such programs is deeply felt by the students themselves. “This program is a complete blessing to me. I applied and received a confirmation, which has inspired me to continue to chase my dreams in education,” shared Ikhwan James, a rising senior from Morehouse College. His words echo the hope and determination of many scholars ready to jump-start their careers across the country after completing this transformative conference.
The UNCF, a leading advocate for college-bound students, has consistently supported access to higher education, providing scholarships and strengthening HBCUs since its founding in 1944. With over $6 billion raised and support for more than 50,000 students annually, UNCF continues to champion the belief that “A mind is a terrible thing to waste”®.
We love to celebrate this powerful collaboration between UNCF and Disney on the Yard, a shining example of how industry leaders and educational institutions are working together to empower and inspire young talent. These moments of magic and opportunity are precisely what shape the leaders who will drive our society forward.
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