Lincoln Commemorates “National Historically Black Colleges and Universities Week”

Lincoln Commemorates “National Historically Black Colleges and Universities Week”

Washington – U.S. Senator Blanche Lincoln today announced that the Senate has recognized the week of August 30, 2009, as “National Historically Black Colleges and Universities Week.” Lincoln has been a co-sponsor of legislation commemorating the occasion for the past three years.

“For young adults, higher education is the key to a bright, successful future. Our nation’s historically black colleges and universities offer students the opportunity to reach their academic goals, and in Arkansas, we are proud that four of these institutions of higher learning are helping tomorrow’s leaders achieve their dreams,” said Lincoln.

Arkansas is home to four historically black colleges and universities: Philander Smith College and Arkansas Baptist College, both in Little Rock; Shorter College in North Little Rock; and the University of Arkansas, Pine Bluff. There are 103 historically black colleges and universities in the United States.

The full text of the resolution is as follows:

RESOLUTION
Designating the week beginning August 30, 2009, as ‘National Historically Black Colleges and Universities Week’.

Whereas there are 103 historically Black colleges and universities in the United States;

Whereas historically Black colleges and universities provide the quality education essential to full participation in a complex, highly technological society;

Whereas historically Black colleges and universities have a rich heritage and have played a prominent role in the history of the United States;

Whereas historically Black colleges and universities allow talented and diverse students, many of whom represent underserved populations, to attain their full potential through higher education; and

Whereas the achievements and goals of historically Black colleges and universities are deserving of national recognition: Now, therefore, be it

Resolved, That the Senate–
(1) designates the week beginning August 30, 2009, as ‘National Historically Black Colleges and Universities Week’; and
(2) calls on the people of the United States and interested groups to observe the week with appropriate ceremonies, activities, and programs to demonstrate support for historically Black colleges and universities in the United States.