The Black Equipment Finance Network (BEFN) announced the recipients of its 2026 Rising Leaders Scholarship and Student Recognition Program, recognizing outstanding college students for academic achievement, leadership, and future potential while advancing awareness of careers in the equipment finance industry.
The 2026 program attracted 26 applications from highly qualified students representing colleges and universities across the country. Following a competitive review process, BEFN recognized 7 students through two award categories, totaling $12,500 in financial awards and student recognition.
2026 BEFN Rising Leaders Scholarship Recipients
($5,000 each)
- Wisdom Agbeve: Grambling State University
- Bri-Alexa Rollins: Clark Atlanta University
2026 BEFN Rising Leaders Finalist Award Recipients
($500 each)
- Richard Cain, Howard University
- Tiana J. Burton, Clark Atlanta University
- Alicia Robinson, Clark Atlanta University
- Hazel Roberts, Hampton University
- Tala Alhassan, North Carolina Central University
In addition, BEFN will recognize ten students through its Career Starter Series Student Leadership Awards. These students will review and provide feedback on BEFN’s Career Starter Series, a new workforce development initiative designed to help students better understand career opportunities and successfully transition from college to professional careers.
“One of the greatest challenges facing our industry is not a shortage of talented people—it’s a shortage of awareness,” said George A. Parker, CLFP, Founder and President of BEFN. “Many successful equipment finance professionals say they ‘stumbled’ into the industry because there was no clear front door. Through scholarships, career education, and workforce development initiatives, BEFN is collaborating with others in our industry to change that by helping talented students discover an industry that offers meaningful, rewarding, and impactful careers.”
The scholarship program is part of BEFN’s broader workforce development strategy, which now includes a Student Career Portal, the BEFN Career Starter Series, mentoring initiatives, and collaborations with industry organizations to expand access and opportunity for the next generation of professionals.
“This year’s applicants represented an exceptional group of students with impressive academic records, leadership experience, and community involvement,” Parker added. “We are proud to invest in their future and look forward to following their continued success.”
The Black Equipment Finance Network gratefully acknowledges the generous support of the NEFA Chris Walker Educational Fund, whose contribution made the scholarship program possible, as well as the continued support of BEFN’s corporate sponsors and volunteers who helped launch this important initiative.
