“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,” Crowley said. “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 NYC and around the country who will benefit from these expanded opportunities for Hispanic students.”
Dr. Antonio Flores, president and CEO of the Hispanic Association of Colleges and University, lauds Crowley for his extraordinary commitment to Hispanic-Serving Institutions. “I commend Rep. Joseph Crowley for his leadership and genuine interest in strengthening Hispanic-Serving Institutions and increasing the under-representation of Hispanics and other minorities in STEM fields.”
Crowley has a long track record of championing higher education opportunities for Hispanic-serving institutions throughout New York City and the entire U.S. Most recently, Crowley authored a key provision that was included in HR 2272, The America COMPETES Act. This key national education legislation to advance our nation’s high-tech economy and ensure American innovation for years to come was signed into law in August 2007. The Crowley provision allows the National Science Foundation to establish a merit-based grant program that would increase math and science educational opportunities for students who attend Hispanic-serving institutions of higher education – institutions where Hispanic students constitute at least a quarter of full-time enrollment. The additional funds will support faculty development, stipends for undergraduate research and curriculum-improvement initiatives.
The Crowley provision has the potential to reach many NYC and national educational institutions including: Lehman College, Bronx Community College, Hostos Community College in the Bronx, LaGuardia Community College, Vaughn College of Aeronautics and Technology, the College of Mount Saint Vincent, Boricua College, Borough of Manhattan Community College, Bronx Community College, City College of New York, John Jay College of Criminal Justice, Mercy College, Metropolitan College of New York and New York City College of Technology.
It is estimated that in Congressman Crowley’s Congressional District 7 there are approximately 10,000 students who attend Hispanic-serving institutions offering degrees in math and science.
Crowley is a Member of the House Ways and Means Committee.
