Menefee Announced $4.2 Million Federal Grant for Texas Southern University

Texas Southern University will receive $4.2 million in federal funding through the U.S. Department of Education's Supplemental Historically Black Colleges and Universities Mandatory Grants program, Rep. Christian Menefee (D) announced Sept. 24.

The funding provides additional resources for HBCUs to strengthen their institutions and expand educational opportunities for students.

"TSU is a cornerstone of opportunity in the 18th Congressional District," said Rep. Menefee. "For generations, it has opened doors for students, strengthened our Houston community, and produced incredible leaders who have made their mark in Texas and across the country."

Menefee added, "The Tigers are a source of pride for TX-18, and this $4.2 million investment will help build on that legacy."

TSU President James W. Crawford III said the university welcomes the federal investment as it approaches its centennial.

"We thank the U.S. Department of Education for this additional investment in historically Black colleges and universities, and we appreciate Congressman Menefee’s continued focused for Texas Southern University and the students we serve,"said Crawford. "These resources will strengthen our ability to advance student success, workforce preparation, innovation, and economic opportunity for Houston, Texas, and the nation."

TSU is one of the nation's largest HBCUs and is located in Houston's Third Ward.

Prairie View A&M University will also receive $4.5 million through the program. Although PVAMU is outside Menefee's 18th Congressional district, Menefee said the university has long-standing ties to Houston.

Menefee highlighted former Rep. Sheila Jackson Lee's support for Prairie View and its students during her nearly three decades representing the district. He said he intends to continue supporting HBCUs that educate and create opportunities for Houstonians.