Elijah Cummings: “I rise today in support of funding in the Labor, Health and Human Services and Education Appropriations bill for…”

“I rise today in support of funding in the Labor, Health and Human Services and Education Appropriations bill for historically black colleges and universities in the United States. I am also elated to note that this bill appropriates more funding to historically black colleges and universities than what was officially requested in the President's budget proposal. In all, this funding is indicative of Congress' commitment to the preservation of educational opportunity for students of color in our Nation. Among many universities, Howard University, my alma mater, here in Washington, DC, will stand to receive approximately $210 million. This money will be used for the continued procurement of academic and educational programming, and to fund much needed renovation efforts throughout various dormitories. I graduated phi beta kappa from Howard in 1973. The wonderful experience and enriching environment of Howard shaped the way in which I view and live in today's world. It is because of Howard University and funding for historically black colleges and universities that I am able to address this distinguished body as a Member of the U.S. House of Representatives.”