In a significant move highlighting the Biden administration’s commitment to higher education, Florida state Senator Shevrin Jones has been appointed to serve on the president’s Board of Advisors on Historically Black Colleges and Universities. This appointment recognizes Jones’ tireless advocacy for educational equity and his dedication to uplifting minority communities and assisting them in reaching their full potential. Jones, who lives in Miami Gardens, is a graduate of Florida A&M University.
The White House HBCU Advisory Board is crucial in advising the president and his administration on policies and initiatives impacting HBCUs across the United States. With Jones joining the board, his expertise and insights will undoubtedly contribute to shaping policies supporting these vital institutions’ growth and success.
A former educator, Jones has long been a vocal advocate for education, serving on President Obama’s College Promise Task Force. His appointment to the advisory board is a testament to his unwavering commitment to ensuring that all students, regardless of their background, have access to quality education and equal opportunities.
Upon his appointment, Jones expressed his gratitude and excitement as well as what it means for him to have the opportunity to serve on the White House HBCU Advisory Board.
“As a member of the HBCU Advisory Board, I contribute expertise, guidance, and support to historically Black colleges and universities to advance their educational missions and address their unique needs,” Jones said in a release.
He emphasized his plans to help HBCUs by making them more accessible to youth in underserved communities and assisting HBCUs to stimulate growth through more funding.
“HBCUs are not a monolith, and that the opportunities and challenges relevant to HBCUs are as diverse as the institutions themselves and the communities they serve. I’ve learned a lot about the unique needs of HBCUs as part of the outreach efforts our team has led with our HBCU Task Force, and I plan to continue to use these connections to make the campus and learning environment better for students,” Jones said.
Jones’ appointment to the advisory board comes at a critical time when HBCUs face numerous challenges, including financial constraints and the need to adapt to the rapidly changing educational landscape. With his extensive legislative experience and deep understanding of the issues facing HBCUs, Jones is well-positioned to contribute to developing effective strategies that address these challenges head-on.
“As a Florida A&M University graduate and a successful alumnus, Shevrin Jones brings a unique perspective to the HBCU Advisory Committee,” FAMU President Larry Robinson said. “He has lived the experience of an HBCU student, and as a graduate, he can personally attest to the incredible value that FAMU and other HBCUs are to students, families, communities and our great nation.”