Mary Branch, a notable educator and the first black female president of a senior college accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Secondary Schools, played a significant role in the establishment of the United Negro College Fund (UNCF). Branch was a key figure in the Austin community, where she worked tirelessly to improve the lives of African Americans through education and advocacy.

During her tenure as president of Huston-Tillotson University, Branch was appointed to the Negro Advisory Board of the National Youth Administration by Congressman Lyndon B. Johnson. This position allowed her to influence educational policies and advocate for resources for black educational institutions. Her involvement in these activities and her leadership within the NAACP helped pave the way for the creation of the UNCF, which has since provided substantial financial support and scholarships to African American students​ 

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Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority, Incorporated (AKA) has a longstanding history of supporting the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) through various initiatives and contributions. Here are some key ways in which AKA has supported the UNCF:

1. Fundraising Efforts: AKA has consistently organized and participated in fundraising activities to support the UNCF. These efforts include hosting events, galas, and charity drives aimed at raising money to provide scholarships and financial aid to students attending historically black colleges and universities (HBCUs).

2. Scholarships: The sorority has established scholarship programs specifically for students attending UNCF member institutions. These scholarships are aimed at easing the financial burden on students and encouraging academic excellence.

3. Partnerships and Collaborations: AKA has partnered with the UNCF on various initiatives to promote higher education among African American students. This collaboration helps in leveraging the resources and networks of both organizations to maximize their impact.

4. Educational Programs: Through its Educational Advancement Foundation (EAF), AKA supports educational programs and initiatives that align with the goals of the UNCF. These programs often focus on leadership development, academic achievement, and community service.

5. Awareness Campaigns: AKA actively works to raise awareness about the importance of supporting HBCUs and the role of the UNCF in ensuring access to higher education for African American students. This includes public service announcements, social media campaigns, and community outreach activities.

These efforts underscore AKA's commitment to supporting the educational aspirations of African American students and ensuring that financial barriers do not hinder their academic progress. Through its support of the UNCF, Alpha Kappa Alpha Sorority continues to play a vital role in promoting higher education and fostering the next generation of leaders.