February 19th 2025.
A representative from Georgia, Floyd Griffin, has recently proposed a new bill that would make it mandatory for a graduate of a historically Black college or university to be a member of the University System's Board of Regents. This idea was introduced by Griffin, who hails from Milledgeville, with the intention of ensuring that an alum from an HBCU is always a part of the board. He believes that this would accurately represent the diversity of the state's university system and bring a much-needed perspective to the top level of decision-making.
The proposed bill, known as HB 203, has set a target for at least one HBCU graduate to serve on the Board of Regents by 2028, with the number increasing to two by 2031. Griffin, in a statement to WSB-TV, emphasized the importance of this guaranteed spot on the board for HBCU graduates. He believes that this would provide a platform for their voices to be heard and their needs to be addressed.
However, it is important to note that the bill also specifies that the chosen member must have graduated from an HBCU within Georgia's University System. Currently, there are 10 institutions in the state that hold this distinction, including well-known schools like Spelman, Morehouse, Morris Brown College, and Clark Atlanta University, which are all part of the Atlanta University Center. Other HBCUs in Georgia include Albany, Fort Valley, and Savannah State University, among others. Additionally, the bill includes predominantly white institutions such as Georgia State, Georgia Southern, and the University of Georgia in its scope.
The University System's Board of Regents currently has 19 members, out of which five are appointed by the state, and the remaining 14 are chosen from congressional districts. This board was established in 1931 and is responsible for overseeing all 24 colleges and universities within the system, along with the Georgia Archives and Public Library services. If passed, the bill would ensure that there is a dedicated seat on this educational body for a representative from a diverse institution, for years to come.
In conclusion, this proposed bill by Rep. Floyd Griffin aims to promote diversity and representation at the highest level of decision-making in Georgia's University System. It has the potential to bring about positive changes and provide a voice to graduates of HBCUs in the state. With the increasing focus on diversity and inclusion in education, this bill could be a step in the right direction for the state of Georgia.
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