A Day of Action for HBCUs on Capitol Hill

WASHINGTON, DC – On Tuesday April 17, HBCU Collective’s 2nd Annual Day of Action press conference was filled with excitement from students, alumni, and supporters from Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) all over the country. HBCU advocates took Capitol Hill steps to call on Members of Congress in effort to make HBCUs a priority for fiscal educational opportunities and for the preservation of HBCUs.

During the press conference, Shaw University and Coppin State University Presidents’ both had a similar theme that HBCU Collective’s call to actions impact the advancement of higher education.

Shaw University President, Dr. Paulette Dillard stated, “All institutions of higher learning must train students to be effective advocates for change. These students here today, are proof that 21st century HBCUs, will continue to play a vital role in educating the leaders of tomorrow.”

Coppin State University President, Dr. Maria Thompson mentioned that advocates will not solidify the place of HBCUs in this country unless students, alumni, and supporters unite as a collective to ensure not only to maintain HBCU foundations but also HBCUs continued success.

President Thompson also stated, “I urge Congress to increase the countries investments in our HBCUs. More importantly, I encourage all of those who support our institutions to do two things; vote in local, state, and national elections for individuals who are willing to pursue support of HBCUs with increasing financial investments; and 2) contact your legislators to support your HBCU.”

Following the press conference, HBCU Collective hosted student-facilitated meetings with Members of Congress to ask additional funding and assistance for facility upgrades, an increase in financial support for students, and funding for federal research grants.

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