Increased minority achievement will be essential in order to meet Maryland's needs for economic growth and a qualified workforce. The breadth of Maryland s citizens must be educated at the highest levels if the State is to ensure continuing economic viability and the highest quality of life for its citizens. Of the African Americans in Maryland who enroll in public higher education, the majority enter through community colleges.
Retention is an ongoing concern.
This figure reflects an enrollment trend that peaked from 1989 to 1994. Unfortunately, at the same time that HBI enrollments soared, Maryland experienced a major recession, and the amount of state general fund support declined sharply. These budget deficiencies made it very difficult for the HBIs to increase access and maintain levels of service. Given the need in the new millennium for a highly educated Maryland populace, it is crucial that minority educational attainment be improved at all levels, both in terms of the State's economic development and the well being of its citizens. No group should be left behind.