Rep. Humphrey Stands with HBCUs, MSIs Amid Trump Funding Cuts from Canceled Grants

COLUMBUS — State Rep. Latyna M. Humphrey (D-Columbus) today issued a statement regarding federal grant cuts made under Secretary of Education Linda McMahon, who eliminated Title III grant programs for Minority-Serving Institutions (MSIs).

“I am deeply disappointed in the actions of the federal government. To see these changes made to necessary funding for HBCUs and MSIs is disheartening. This one-time funding is concerning as it does not give our HBCUs a clear financial map for their future. Central State University and Wilberforce University hold a special place in my heart, and watching these respected institutions be singled out is yet another attempt by this administration to undermine the very cornerstones of our culture and progress,” said Rep. Humphrey.

The cuts were made under Secretary of Education Linda McMahon, who eliminated Title III grant programs for Minority-Serving Institutions. Instead, there will be one time funding, with no clear image of what the future will look for Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) and MSIs. Central State University is Ohio’s only public HBCU, and Wilberforce University is the nation’s oldest private HBCU.

“What the federal government is doing simply does not make sense. Grants that historic and prestigious colleges rely on are now being labeled as discriminatory.  These schools are not exclusively for Black students—anyone is welcome to attend these institutions of higher learning. Across the country, not only HBCUs but also other Minority-Serving Institutions that depend on these grants are being harmed. Some of this funding is constitutionally protected, and we cannot pick and choose which laws to enforce. 

We’ve seen similar actions done by the budget this year with our public school districts, where the assurance of future government funding was stripped away. All schools need reliable financial forecasts to plan long-term, because uncertainty in funding impacts every aspect of their operations,” added Rep. Humphrey.

Rep. Humphrey reaffirmed her commitment to ensuring that Ohio’s HBCUs receive the fair and equitable support they deserve.

“I will continue to advocate for all of Ohio’s HBCUs to ensure they are not left behind. We must protect these institutions, their students, and the opportunities they provide for generations to come,” concluded Rep. Humphrey.