Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF) carries forth the legacy of Justice Thurgood Marshall strongly believing that where you are born should not determine who you become. Our member schools play a crucial role in shaping the future of our students – helping to break down barriers for those chasing what can often seem impossible.

Determined to be the first college graduate in her family, Ariana Tutwiler remarked that her journey to Howard University didn’t look like any sitcom she had ever seen on television.

The Downey, California native experienced homelessness and hopelessness growing up, at times, wondering what she would eat.

“My mother had three brain surgeries, and my sister was diagnosed with neuroblastoma at the age of three. By the time I got to middle school, I struggled through homelessness and endless financial instability,” Ariana shared. “School then became a blur, drifting through each day wondering if the two people I love the most would wake up with me.”

During her sophomore year, her family spent six months in a car before moving to a women’s shelter for nine months. Living through this experience, college seemed out of reach for Ariana, but wise words from her mother gave her hope for the future.

“My mother instilled in me that your trials and tribulations were an integral part of your journey to success,” she said. “As I matriculated through high school and junior college, furthering my education became something that I wished to achieve not only for myself, but my family as well. I wanted to show those who came after me that your past and struggles do not define your future.” 

Ariana chose to apply to Howard because of its reputation as one of the most prestigious Historically Black College and Universities (HBCUs) in the country, its rich history, and notable alumni.  

“Standing on a Black campus, immersed in Black excellence, and emerging a stronger, more confident version of myself was a big personal goal for me. I knew that was an experience I could receive at Howard.”

Ariana is currently a second-year junior marketing major with plans to work in the entertainment/music industry after earning her degree. At Howard, she is a member of the Transfer Student Association, California Club, and the Caribbean Students Association.

“I am also working on bringing to campus my up-and-coming non-profit in honor of my younger sister – who is now 16, cancer-free, and going into her junior year of high school – called The Pinky Promise,” Ariana shared. “The Pinky Promise is an initiative created to give back to the community, raise awareness of pediatric cancer, and advocate for families of critically ill children.” The non-profit successfully completed its first annual toy drive benefiting the families of the Children’s Hospital of Orange County in December 2023.

Ariana’s experiences at Howard have improved her confidence and helped her find her voice. She encourages others to attend an HBCU exclaiming that the experience is “unmatched.”

“Howard has taught me many things. As someone who has always struggled with self-confidence, I’ve learned that beauty comes in all shapes and sizes. Being here has taught me to advocate for myself and how to put myself out there in different rooms even though it might be uncomfortable,” she shared. “I would encourage others to attend an HBCU because it is truly a one-of-one experience. In my opinion there is no other campus where you will feel truly celebrated just walking on campus. At an HBCU, Black culture is proudly celebrated and acknowledged, while gifting Black individuals with resources to be phenomenal leaders.”