On the recordDecember 3, 2019
I thank the gentlewoman for her leadership on this subject. Since coming to Congress, she has been one of the foremost advocates for education, specifically HBCUs. Prior to her arriving, it has always been an issue that has been very important, but she has really raised awareness and highlighted and been consistent in her leadership in this area. Madam Speaker, I rise today to support the FUTURE Act in minority- serving institutions. I thank Representative Adams once again for anchoring tonight's discussion of this very important subject. Minority-serving colleges and universities--not to be mistaken as HBCUs--serve a critical role in our society. I, in New Jersey, do not have an HBCU, but we have many minority-serving institutions, and several in my district. These are students who find more support with teachers and professors who come from their culture. Studies have shown that they get better grades in classes with teachers of the same culture and race. This starts even before the students enter college. Minority students in the same race classes have fewer behavioral problems, regardless of income level or family structure. They are far more likely to end up doing well and coming along on the collegiate level at HBCUs. They are more likely to be held to a higher academic standard and pushed harder to excel in these schools. They perform better in reading, mathematics, and other core courses. That is where MSIs become vital to their continued success.…
