Hispanic-Serving Colleges Honor Crowley

An organization of Hispanic-serving institutions of higher learning recently honored Congressmember Joseph Crowley for his efforts in Congress to boost math and science programs at those schools.

One of the reasons for the honor was Crowley's sponsorship of a key provision in a law which will advance this nation's high-tech economy and ensure American innovation for years to come.

The provision allows the National Science Foundation (NSF) to establish a merit-based grant program that would increase math and science educational opportunities for students who attend Hispanic-serving institutions where they constitute at least a quarter of full-time enrollment.

Upon receiving the honor from the Hispanic Association of Colleges and Universities (HACU) at its 2008 Capitol Forum, Crowley (D- Queens/The Bronx) stated: "A strong education in science and math provides a wealth of opportunities for students of all backgrounds and ultimately helps the U.S. retain its global competitiveness. That is why it was so important to help colleges and universities with significant Hispanic student enrollment enhance their science and math curriculum, hire qualified professors and instructors, and improve resources for all students. I was honored to join HACU at their 2008 Capitol Forum and pleased to have the opportunity to meet students from New York City and around the country who will benefit from these expanded opportunities for Hispanic students."

Dr. Anthony Flores, HACU president and chief executive officer, lauding Crowley for his extraordinary commitment, commended the Elmhurst lawmaker for his "leadership and genuine interest in strengthening Hispanic-serving institutions and increasing the under representation of Hispanics and other minorities".

The Crowley provision in the aforementioned America Competes Act has the potential of reaching many New York City and national educational institutions, including Lehman College, Bronx Community College, Hostos Community College in The Bronx, LaGuardia Community College in Long Island City, Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology in Jackson Heights, the College of Mt. Saint Vincent, Boricua College, Borough of Manhattan Community College, City College of New York, John Jay College of Criminal Justice and New York City College of Technology.

According to Crowley in his 7th Congressional District there are approximately 10,000 students who attend Hispanic-serving institutions offering degrees in math and science.

- John Toscano