Bill Haslam, governor of the state of Tennessee, recently signed into law the Initiative on Historically Black Colleges and Universities. The legislation creates a director’s position who will act as a liaison between lawmakers and leadership of the state’s HBCUs.
State representative Harold Love Jr., a co-sponsor of the legislation, said that the bill is the “first in the nation where the state said we’re concerned about all HBCUs. Now the state will be focusing on increasing graduation rates, enrollment rates, and retention rates at all our HBCUs.” Representative Love is a graduate of Tennessee State University and holds a master’s degree in theological studies from Vanderbilt University. He currently is studying for a Ph.D. in public administration at Tennessee State University.
Glenda Glover, president of historically Black Tennessee State University, said that “funding this legislation sends a clear message on the important role Tennessee State University and the other historically Black colleges and universities play in serving thousands of families, and our global impact.”
Great legislation from a great Legislator giving back to Universities that have helped so many people of all races.
Outstanding, make it be the beginning of all the HBCU’S reconnecting with all of the Talents Students that are going to other Universities adding to their Growth, yet never feeling like an Alumnus upon Graduation. Thanks Governor for changing the thought process of the Tennessee Legislators. You have made it possible for GROWTH to come about with adequate access to capital. I can see from this act Tennessee Legislators are changing the Preamble from We the People,to All the PEOPLE. Way to Lead. PRESS ON…
I am a Wilson County High School graduate and any little financial help was very much appreciated by me. It was hard finding $55.00 per quarter to attend Tennessee A& I State Universit in the 60″s, but I worked two jobs and graduated thanks to Robert Wilkerson , a dentist and my mama in my home town who help finance some of my education and said keep going don’t stop.
Thank you Governor Haslam and the legislative body for your thoughtfulness. So many students rely on HBCU Universities to attain a degree. Thank you Dr. Glover for your dedication to TSU and students success.
Thanks to Governor Haslam and the governing body who assist in making decisions that affect our universities progress.
Congratulations Rep. Love & other co-sponsors, Tn. State Legislators, & Gov. Haslam for supporting and passing this great and needed legislation. I am a ’72 graduate of Fisk University & also completed Education Administration certification at TSU. The contributions of all HBCU’s in America is unique and lofe changing. I thank God for the impatations in my life. My life and careers were blessed as I completed my doctorate degree with satisfaction .
Rev. Dr. Arthur W. Patterson,Sr.