DeGette Introduces Plan to Expand Hispanics' Access to Higher Education
DeGette Introduces Plan to Expand Hispanics' Access to Higher Education
WASHINGTON, DC - U.S. Representative Diana DeGette (D-CO) introduced a proposal to strengthen Hispanic-Serving Institutions, colleges and universities which serve a large percentage of Hispanic students.
The Next Generation Hispanic-Serving Institutions Act would provide critical new funding for graduate programs at Hispanic-Serving Institutions and increasing funding for undergraduate programs. To help encourage more schools to participate in the program, it would also reduce regulations on the colleges and universities who qualify for these programs.
"For many Coloradoans a college degree, and even a graduate degree, is the key to a decent-paying job and financial security. But too many Hispanics have had only limited access to higher education," said Rep. DeGette. "This plan opens the door to new education opportunities for Hispanic students who want to go to college or graduate school."
Six schools in Colorado, Adams State College, Community College of Denver, Otero Junior College, Pueblo Community College, Trinidad State Junior College, and the University of Southern Colorado, could be elligible for assistance under the Hispanic Serving Institutions proposal.
Currently, Hispanics only account for 6 percent of bachelor's degrees, 3 percent of doctorates and 5 percent of first professional degrees. At the same time, one out of every three new employees hired in the United States is Hispanic. The lack of education opportunties presents a real challenge for many Hispanics entering the workforce and seeking decent paying jobs with opportunities for advancement.
Rep. DeGette is a member of the Congressional Hispanic Working Group, which is dedicated to creating new policy initiatives to help the Hispanic community. The group was created in 2003 to work with the Congressional Hispanic Caucus to develop legislation and communicate on key issues with Hispanic families.
http://www.house.gov/apps/list/press/co01_degette/050228.html