The HBCU Campaign Fund (HCF) joins the Harris-Stowe State University and Lincoln University communities in commending the Missouri Senate Appropriations Committee for its leadership and thoughtful consideration of advancing a more balanced and responsible approach to higher education funding.

At a time when proposed funding changes created deep uncertainty and concern across Missouri’s higher education landscape—particularly for HBCUs; the committee’s efforts to restore funding levels reflects a clear commitment to stability, fairness, and the long-term success of students and institutions.

HCF especially appreciates the committee’s willingness to respond to concerns raised by institutional leaders, advocates, and communities across the state. In doing so, the committee has demonstrated that collaborative governance and thoughtful policymaking can lead to more equitable outcomes.

While we acknowledge this progress, we also emphasize that sustaining institutions requires continued investment that goes beyond maintaining funding. Nonetheless, the Senate Appropriation Committee’s actions represents a meaningful and commendable step toward protecting access to quality higher education for all Missourians and the state’s HBCUs.

HCF looks forward to continue advocating and having conversations with Missouri lawmakers to ensure that funding policies remain equitable, mission-driven, and reflective of the essential role HBCUs play in the higher education landscape.

Thank you to everyone who has stood with us in advocacy and joined the fight against HB 2003. This is only one step forward — the work is far from over, and the fight continues.

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About the HBCU Campaign Fund
The HBCU Campaign Fund (HCF) was founded in 2012 and is a non-profit educational organization that remains a strong advocate for students and higher education. The mission of HCF is to support the significance and raise funds for scholarships, programs, and for private and public HBCUs and MSIs. For more information, visit www.hbcucampaignfund.org.