Education

Reps. Alma Adams and Mark Walker are sponsoring legislation that extends for two years hundreds of millions of dollars in funding for minority-serving institutions, including Historically Black Colleges and Universities. The current authorization for that money expires at the end of the month. "It is dire that we pass this bill," said Adams, D-12th District. The legislation, called the FUTURE Act, cleared the House this week, but its fate in the Senate is uncertain. Adams warned if the authorization for the funding is not renewed, it could lead to "laying off" of staff and faculty.

Following a House vote Tuesday to extend $255 million in spending for minority-serving colleges and universities, advocacy groups are urging the Senate to take action before the funding expires Sept. 30. On Tuesday evening, the House approved the chamber's version of the bipartisan bill, sponsored by Rep. Alma Adams (D-N.C.) and Rep. Mark Walker (R-N.C.), on a voice vote. It is up to the Senate to move on the legislation, but Republican leadership so far is unwilling.

Congresswoman Alma Adams speaks with Roland Martin on Roland Martin Unfiltered to discuss the FUTURE Act and what Congress is doing to protect funding for Historically Black Colleges and Universities.

Congresswoman Alma Adams hosted her first annual HBCU Day to educate the community on Historically Black Colleges and Universities. Over 20 HBCUs from across the Nation were present. Those in attendance had the opportunity to learn about the history, culture, admissions assistance and scholarship opportunities that HBCUs have to offer.

Congresswoman Alma Adams held a community congressional listening session, Take It To The Hill, to give residents of the community an opportunity to speak with her directly about the issues and concerns they have.