Assembly Resolution No. 2326 BY: M. of A. Rules (Darling) MEMORIALIZING Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim September 15-19, 2024, as Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Week in the State of New York WHEREAS, It is the sense of this Legislative Body to recognize and commend those exemplary institutions of higher education within our great Nation which preserve the heritage of African Americans and for their enduring commitment to the pursuit of academic excellence; and WHEREAS, Attendant to such concern, and in full accord with its long-standing traditions, this Legislative Body is justly proud to memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim September 15-19, 2024, as Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Week in the State of New York, in conjunction with the observation of National HBCU Week; and WHEREAS, Since their establishment 188 years ago, HBCUs have continued to build a legacy of excellence, achievement, and inclusion; they were created to provide opportunities and access to education for Black students during a time when institutions of higher education held discriminatory practices; and WHEREAS, The establishment and advancement of HBCUs fostered academic excellence, cultural empowerment, and professional readiness for Black students throughout our nation and they play a crucial role in contributing to the economy and workforce, aligning their academic programs with the needs of industry while ensuring HBCU graduates meet the demands of the job market; and WHEREAS, HBCU graduates are exemplary public servants, scientists, doctors, artists, lawyers, judges, engineers, educators, entertainers, business owners, and leaders and have distinguished themselves in numerous ways; and WHEREAS, For almost 200 years, HBCUs have been defined by unparalleled standards of learning and have produced countless leaders throughout the world; and WHEREAS, With great admiration, this Legislative Body is proud to pay tribute to these colleges and universities which stand at the threshold of the future with their legacy of outstanding achievements and their impressive body of distinguished alumni; now, therefore, be it RESOLVED, That this Legislative Body pause in its deliberations to memorialize Governor Kathy Hochul to proclaim September 15-19, 2024, as Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCU) Week in the State of New York; and be it further RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution, suitably engrossed, be transmitted to The Honorable Kathy Hochul, Governor of the State of New York.