Sen. Raphael Warnock announced that he is securing nearly $100 million in federal funding for science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) programs at 10 Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). The investment is expected to expand research opportunities and support the next generation of scientists and engineers.
Supporting HBCUs
The Georgia Democrat and Morehouse College graduate announced the $97.1 million award through the Department of Defense’s HBCU and Minority-Serving Institution program. The funding will support research initiatives and strengthen institutional capabilities as participating schools work toward achieving Research 1 (R1) status, the highest classification for research activity among U.S. colleges and universities.
“For too long, HBCUs have gone unrecognized for their contributions to our nation’s leading STEM industry,” Warnock said. “These institutions serve as stewards of academic excellence and innovation, and this federal investment specifically in STEM programs honors that legacy of greatness and expands opportunity for the next generation of scientists.”
The 10 HBCUs receiving funding are:
- North Carolina Agricultural and Technical State University: $10 million
- Florida A&M University: $10 million
- Morgan State University: $10 million
- Texas Southern University: $9,997,847
- Delaware State University: $9,998,873
- University of the District of Columbia: $9,982,865
- Fayetteville State University: $9,905,607
- Prairie View A&M University: $9,858,194
- Clark Atlanta University: $9,784,632.00
- Jackson State University: $7,573,527
Despite their contributions, Black professionals remain underrepresented in the nation’s STEM workforce, underscoring the importance of expanding access to research, training and career opportunities.
HBCUs have played a major role in preparing students for careers in STEM, producing approximately 28% of Black STEM graduates in the United States despite representing only about 3% of the nation’s colleges and universities, according to an August UNCF report entitled “HBCUs Still Punching Above Their Weight.”
North Carolina A&T State University is the nation’s leading producer of Black STEM and engineering graduates. Florida A&M University has a strong track record in biological sciences, mathematics and engineering. Alabama A&M University is recognized for its computer science, engineering and mathematics programs, while Howard University has educated generations of Black scientists, particularly in engineering and the biological and physical sciences.
Warnock has made federal support for HBCUs a priority since beginning his full Senate term in 2022. He has secured more than $17 billion for HBCU campuses nationwide, including nearly $275 million for institutions in Georgia.
Warnock has also worked to expand HBCUs’ access to federal research funding through the bipartisan HBCU Research Capacity Act. The legislation would establish a federally coordinated website compiling STEM research and development funding opportunities available to HBCUs.
In March, Warnock hosted more than 30 HBCU presidents at the U.S. Capitol to discuss ways to expand access to federal grants.
Fort Valley State University wasn’t on that list! Why not!!! A leader in its CDEP Program led by Dr Crumbly!
This is great news however I would like to know why my Alma mater (Tennessee State University) didn’t make the list. We have a outstanding college of engineering