Characteristics of graduates of 42 colleges belonging to the United Negro College Fund (UNCF) are considered. A primary objective was to evaluate the success of the colleges in preparing an elite class of individuals dedicated to the survival and advancement of blacks specifically and democracy and justice in a larger sense. After an overview of the group as a whole, and the political, economic, and social changes that influenced them, the question of racial equality is addressed. Information was obtained on the graduates' social origins, education, occupations, social life, social class, and leadership. Data sources included questionnaires, interviews, personal documents, and published information from secondary sources. The views of the graduates' on racial disadvantage, social class identity, family and human relations, community service, civil rights, politics, and leadership were determined. Areas of analysis included: graduates' place of birth, black migration, family background, high school preparation, college majors, honors and achievements, advanced degrees, racial mix in the workplace, types of career, work history, qualifications compared to those of white employees, income, and participation in black social and religious organizations, and leadership in local, state, and national affairs, both black and at large. (SW)