BLUEFIELD, W.Va. (WVDN) – Senator Jim Justice visited Bluefield State University to meet with students and deliver remarks on the HBCU Arts Act and the IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act.
“HBCUs have been educating leaders, opening doors, and creating opportunities for generations. Bluefield State has already shown it can turn federal investment into results. IGNITE gives us a way to do more of that, faster. Along with the HBCU Arts Act, we are doing everything in our power to make sure students at HBCUs have the tools they need to succeed. Building up West Virginia’s HBCUs isn’t a partisan issue — it’s an investment in our workforce and our future,” said Senator Jim Justice.
“The HBCU Arts Act and the IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act are meaningful investments in our students, our campus and our community. As Senator Justice said, the arts are our soul, and this legislation would help Bluefield State preserve that soul while expanding opportunity. We are grateful for his longstanding advocacy for Bluefield State and America’s HBCUs,” said Keith Olson, Director of Communications, Bluefield State University.
BACKGROUND:
- Senator Justice introduced the HBCU Arts Act with Senator Alsobrooks this May.
- The HBCU Arts Act would increase investments in HBCU arts education by amending Section 323 of the Higher Education Act of 1965 to include provisions supporting arts programs at HBCUs.
- Senator Justice is a co-sponsor of the IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act.
- The IGNITE HBCU Excellence Act authorizes major federal investments in the infrastructure, technology, and research capacity of Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
