TITLE: Recognizing February 25, 2019, as Prairie View A&M University Day.

SUMMARY: Recognizing February 25, 2019, as Prairie View A&M University Day.

FULL TEXT:
WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to join citizens around the state in celebrating February 25, 2019, as Prairie View A&M University Day at the Capitol; and WHEREAS, On August 14, 1867, the Texas Legislature established the Alta Vista Agricultural and Mechanical College of Texas for Colored Youth, the first state-supported college in Texas for African Americans; and WHEREAS, Now known as Prairie View A&M University, the school is the second-oldest public institution in Texas and is ranked among the nation's best colleges and universities; the school's current president, Dr. Ruth Simmons, holds a doctorate from Harvard University and formerly served as president of Smith College and Brown University; she is the recipient of numerous honors and is a member of the National Academy of Arts and Sciences; and WHEREAS, Prairie View A&M University is known as a leading institution for higher education in such areas as agricultural research, architecture, biology, business, education, engineering, juvenile justice, and nursing; students benefit from a challenging curriculum that prepares them to thrive in their chosen careers; and WHEREAS, Throughout its distinguished history, Prairie View A&M University has awarded approximately 50,000 academic degrees; it is a leader among historically black colleges and universities and is a valuable component of The Texas A&M University System; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 86th Legislature, hereby commend the educators, staff, and administrators of Prairie View A&M University and extend to them best wishes for a memorable Prairie View A&M University Day at the Capitol; and, be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for the university as an expression of high regard from the Texas Senate. Kolkhorst President of the Senate I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on February 25, 2019.