Title III of the Higher Education Act of 1965 is a federally funded program designed to support the infrastructure of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) and other institutions serving a high percentage of needy students. HBCUs like Tennessee State University receive millions of dollars annually to strengthen various academic programs, administrative operations, and student services. (Tennessee State)

HBCUs have become an essential part of the American education system. From its

Believe it or not there could be a major dent of funding for all HBCUs with only one vote. Congress has been locked in debates as to how they can reduce the national deficit.  With this issue still lingering, it ultimately puts a threat to all students attending HBCUs as well as the existence of the illustrious institutions as we know it. We must protect the program Title III, Part B “Strengthening Historically Black Colleges and Universities,” of the Higher Education Act; which aids all HBCUs. The Congressional Super Committee could suggest and actually eradicate programs important to all HBCUs.  This is not the only Act to be threatened but also Pell Grants, which many students receive. Is President Obama, who had a conference at the White House during HBCU Week in September going to let that happen?

The bigger question is: will you sit back, and let this happen? If you want to see things change you have the opportunity to speak out and take ACTION.  We must be the change we want to see, right?  The United Negro College Fund is urging everyone to jump on board in this fight to protect and preserve HBCUs. UNCF and those affected wants your voice can be heard. This is not just a task for current students, but all those connected to HBCUS in any way shape or form. You can go on www.UNCG.org/advocacy, and click on the Take action button. There is also a chart which in tells each HBCU and who to contact.

I charge everyone to share this information. Be sure your perspective HBCU is aware and taking action on campus to make sure the decision to cut funding for HBCUs does not happen, this is YOUR reality, and you have control.

For a definition of Federal funding, read the quote below:

Federal funds are all monies received directly from the United States Government, the expenditure of which is administered through or under the direction of any State agency and reported as Federal Trust Fund monies in the “Reconciliation with Appropriations” in the Governor’s Budget.  As discussed in SAM Sections 6131 and 6141.4, no distinction is made between Federal reimbursements and Federal grants; and, therefore, all money received directly from the United States Government, with the exception of revenues as defined below, is to be treated as a source of funds and reported as Federal Trust Fund monies in each department’s budget.  Revenue, as defined by SAM Section 6136, is an addition to cash or other current assets which does not increase any liability or reserve, nor represent the recovery of an expenditure, e.g., reimbursements and abatements, and should be accounted according to procedures contained in SAM Section 8200.  Some examples of revenue are: sale of documents, sale of water, rentals of State property, sale of forest products, and sale of State public lands.