Promoting Excellence, Innovation, and Sustainability at HBCUs

Mar 3, 2010

Summary

Establishes a White House group to help Historically Black Colleges and Universities get more support and resources from the government and companies.

What problem does this solve?

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) have greatly helped our country but often lack the resources to fully take part in federal programs. This order creates a special White House group to connect HBCUs with government agencies and private partners for more funding and opportunities.

What does this order do?

Establishes the White House Initiative on HBCUs

Creates a new group within the Department of Education to work with government agencies and private groups to help strengthen HBCUs.

Creates the President's Board of Advisors on HBCUs

Forms a board of up to 25 members, chosen by the President, to give advice on how to improve the visibility, competitiveness, and financial security of HBCUs.

Requires annual plans from federal agencies

Directs federal departments to create yearly plans explaining how they will help HBCUs compete for grants, contracts, and other federal programs.

Fosters public-private partnerships

Encourages partnerships between HBCUs, private companies, and community groups to improve the schools' ability to serve students and the nation.

Revokes a previous executive order

Cancels and replaces Executive Order 13256 from 2002, which had a similar purpose.

Who does this affect?

Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs)
Students and faculty at HBCUs
Federal government agencies

What is the real world impact?

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Strengthens support for HBCUs

Creates a formal process for federal agencies to actively support HBCUs, ensuring these important schools have better access to government grants, contracts, and other programs.

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Promotes educational equality

Aims to level the playing field by addressing the historic challenges HBCUs have faced, helping them provide top-quality education and create opportunities for their students.

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Could be seen as a symbolic gesture

Critics might argue that creating an advisory board and requiring agency plans does not guarantee new funding or real change, and could be more about appearances than actual results.

When does this start?

This order became effective when it was signed on February 26, 2010.