[Weekly Compilation of Presidential Documents Volume 44, Number 35 (Monday, September 8, 2008)]
[Pages 1175-1176]
[Online from the Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]

<R04>
Proclamation 8285--National Historically Black Colleges and Universities 
Week, 2008

 September 3, 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.

[[Page 1176]]

    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

 [Filed with the Office of the Federal Register, 8:45 a.m., September 4, 
2008]

Note: This proclamation was published in the Federal Register on 
September 5.