Dear Faculty, Staff, Students, and Alumni:
I am writing to make you aware of an opportunity that has been made available to Langston University through our partnership with the Thurgood Marshall College Fund (TMCF). Langston University has been invited by TMCF to participate in the HBCU Fly-In with other Historically Black colleges and universities around the country.
Eighty-eight institutional presidents, including me, will travel to Washington, D.C. for the Fly-In to meet with a number of constituents including the following leaders: TMCF representatives, Congressman Mark Walker, Senator Tim Scott, Congressman Trey Gowdy, Congresswoman Virginia Foxx, Speaker Paul Ryan, and Senator James Lankford of Oklahoma. We will also have the opportunity to meet with Secretary of Education Betsy DeVos and President Donald Trump.
While much attention has been paid to the funding that we receive from the State of Oklahoma as a public institution, it is critical to understand that we receive far more funding from the federal government. As our state is faced with ongoing revenue shortfalls, institutions of higher education are bracing for more reductions to our allocated state funding, making our federal funding more important than ever. At Langston University, we receive over $39 million annually in federal funding to support programs such as student financial aid, research, and grant activities. Programs funded through federal resources directly impact the holistic experience of Langston University students and the tireless efforts of our faculty. It is imperative that we continue to cultivate strong relationships with our federal partners to ensure the continued support and growth of federally-funded programs at Langston University.
I will use this opportunity to advocate for Langston University, including the possibility of increased federal funding and national recognition for our institution and all HBCUs. I believe it is our obligation to engage in dialogue and opportunities that strengthen the position of Langston University among local, state, and federal constituents. I look forward to sharing additional information including results of our conversations from the HBCU Fly-In with you upon my return.
Thank you for your continued support of Langston University.
Sincerely,
Kent J. Smith Jr., Ph.D.
President
LUNAA Life Member #864
O: (405) 466-3201
C: (740) 818-8700
president@langston.edu
www.facebook.com/kentsmithjr www.twitter.com/LUPrez16
Posted By: How May I Help You NC
Friday, February 24th 2017 at 4:52PM
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