[United States Statutes at Large, Volume 122, 110th Congress, 2nd Session]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

122 STAT. 5345


 
PROCLAMATION 8285--SEPT. 3, 2008



Proclamation 8285 of September 3, 2008
National Historically Black Colleges and Universities Week, 2008
By the President of the United States of America
A Proclamation
Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) are helping to
extend lifelines of learning throughout our country. During Historically
Black Colleges and Universities Week, we pay tribute to these
distinguished institutions.
Our Nation's HBCUs help unlock the great potential within students by
providing quality higher education to traditionally underserved
communities. By offering all students an opportunity to develop their
skills and talents, HBCUs are helping more Americans realize the promise
of our Nation.
My Administration is committed to promoting equal opportunities and
access to higher education for all students. Since 2001, funding for
HBCUs and Historically Black Graduate Institutions has increased.
Additionally, the College Cost Reduction and Access Act of 2007 makes
college more affordable for low-income students by increasing funding
for Federal Pell Grants by more than $11 billion. The Act also helps
HBCUs increase educational opportunities in the critical fields of math,
science, technology, and foreign languages. By educating all of
America's students, we are investing in our next generation of leaders
and contributing to a more hopeful people and a more prosperous America.
Throughout this week, we renew the call for this country to never rest
until equality is real, opportunity is universal, and all citizens can
realize their dreams. We also recognize our country's HBCUs and their
important role in making these goals a reality.
NOW, THEREFORE, I, GEORGE W. BUSH, President of the United States of
America, by virtue of the authority vested in me by the Constitution and
laws of the United States, do hereby proclaim September 7 through
September 13, 2008, as National Historically Black Colleges and
Universities Week. I call upon public officials, educators, librarians,
and all the people of the United States to observe this week with
appropriate programs, ceremonies, and activities in respect and
appreciation for the contributions these valuable institutions and their
graduates have made to our country.
IN WITNESS WHEREOF, I have hereunto set my hand this third day of
September, in the year of our Lord two thousand eight, and of the
Independence of the United States of America the two hundred and thirty-
third.
GEORGE W. BUSH