It is with deep sorrow that we join the nation in mourning the passing of our nation’s 39th President, Jimmy Carter. President Carter leaves behind an extraordinary legacy that is a privilege to be forever remembered.

A champion of justice, equality, and civil rights, President Carter was a staunch advocate for the African American community, higher education, and historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). We are grateful for his remarkable leadership.

During his leadership, he became the first U.S. president to issue an executive order specifically addressing historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs). Since President Carter issued his executive order in 1980, every president has followed suit, issuing an executive order on HBCUs. Executive Order 12232 directed the Secretary of Education “to implement a Federal Initiative aimed at significantly increasing the participation of historically Black colleges and universities in federally sponsored programs.”

His unwavering advocacy led to the establishment of the White House Initiatives on HBCUs during his presidency. This initiative, which serves as a mission to advance educational equity, excellence, and economic opportunity through historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), seeks to enhance the capacity of HBCUs to provide quality education, increase opportunities, and benefit federal programs. President Carter’s policies continue to support HBCUs in improving their educational capabilities.

Beyond his presidency and advocacy for historically Black colleges and universities (HBCUs), President Carter continued his commitment to promoting democracy, human rights, and health equity through the Carter Center. His unwavering dedication and unwavering commitment to making the world and the United States a better place are truly appreciated and will forever be etched in the hearts of us at HCF.

As we reflect on President Carter’s life and legacy, we extend our deepest condolences and blessing to the Carter family. We join the nation in honoring his remarkable contributions that have left an indelible mark on humanity. We salute his unwavering dedication to providing better futures for all. May his legacy continue to inspire and guide us.

– HBCU Campaign Fund

---

Memorial services for former president Jimmy Carter are excepted to begin on Saturday, Jan. 4, and include public events in Plains, GA, Atlanta and Washington, D.C. See the full details of schedule events here.