During tonight’s State of the Union Address, President Biden highlighted two important proposals that will significantly help students and families around the country.  He urged Congress to increase both the Pell Grant and the nation’s commitment to Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
 
NAICU President Barbara K. Mistick, D.M. issued the following statement:
 
“Last night during his State of the Union address, President Biden reaffirmed his commitment to millions of students and families by urging Congress to increase both the Pell Grant and the nation’s historic support for Historically Black Colleges and Universities.
 
“Throughout its nearly 50 year history, the Pell Grant has helped more than 80 million students access a higher education.  Today, the grant helps over 6 million students annually across all sectors of higher education. According to a recent survey, over 80% of Americans support expanding the Pell Grant, including 77% of Republicans and 91% of Democrats.
 
“The Pell Grant is a proven student aid program that enjoys strong bipartisan support, and is the fairest and most efficient way to help low-income and first-generation students access and complete college.  Expanding the Pell Grant will put more money in the hands of students, providing critical financial assistance, and allow them to use it at the college or training program that best fits their educational needs.
 
“We applaud President Biden for his continued support of both the Pell Grant and the nation’s HBCUs, and for putting higher education front and center in his domestic policy agenda.  These are critical investments in our students and our nation’s future that will have a profound impact on our economic recovery from the pandemic.”