Julian Thompson currently serves as the Senior Director of Strategy Development for UNCF and its Institute for Capacity (ICB), and is responsible for the development of strategies that improve the resilience and sustainability of Black colleges and universities, as well as the cultivation of ICB’s mission and vision within and beyond the Black higher education network. He also oversees emerging initiatives, including those related to student success, mental health, industry partnerships and endowment growth.

Julian is a proud lifelong learner, eager to discuss a wide range of topics, including history, politics, education, and community empowerment. He began his career focused on the intersection of education and policy in the City of Philadelphia, with positions at City Year, the School District of Philadelphia, and Philadelphia City Council.

Julian holds a bachelor’s degree in history from UNCF member institution Morehouse College and is also a graduate of Harvard Law School. Julian is enthusiastic about civic engagement and has held volunteer leadership positions with West Oak Lane Charter School, Operation Understanding, PhillyCORE Leaders, GLSEN Philly, the Central High School Mock Trial Team and Philly Reads DuBois. He currently serves on the boards and committees with InsideTrack, FamFrequency Productions, Complete College America’s Council on Equitable AI, and Philadelphia’s chapter of the Morehouse College Alumni Association.