Statement by USM Chancellor Jay A. Perman on the Signing of Maryland's HBCU Funding Bill
Baltimore, Md. (March 24, 2021) – On behalf of the entire University System of Maryland (USM) and, particularly, our three world-class HBCUs—Bowie State University, Coppin State University, and the University of Maryland Eastern Shore—I’m delighted that Gov. Hogan has signed HB1/SB1, advancing funding equity for the state’s historically Black institutions.
The bill grants $577 million over 10 years to the University System’s three HBCUs, as well as Morgan State University. The funding will be used to provide student scholarships and financial aid, develop new academic programs, and recruit faculty. It’s a critical component in strengthening affordable access to an HBCU education; creating dynamic, high-quality degree programs that attract the best and brightest students; and keeping the institutions competitive in Maryland’s rich higher education landscape.
The legislature’s overwhelming support for this bill and the governor’s signing of it affirm our leaders’ commitment to Maryland’s historically Black institutions. The USM applauds this move to ensure funding equity for the state’s HBCUs and thereby secure their future.
Contact: Mike Lurie
Phone: 301.445.2719
Email: mlurie@usmd.edu
