ATLANTA (June 29, 2023) | Today, Senator Sonya Halpern (D –Atlanta) joined Lt. Governor Burt Jones in announcing a groundbreaking fall tour of Georgia’s esteemed Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs). This tour marks a significant extension of Senator Halpern’s commitment to Georgia’s higher education system and its crucial role in the workforce and economic development, aligning with her visionary legislation creating an HBCU Innovation and Economic Prosperity Planning Districts Commission.
“It’s an honor to collaborate with Lt. Governor Jones on this tour,” said Senator Halpern. “Our HBCUs are beacons of innovation, excellence, and cultural significance. By embarking on this initiative, we celebrate their impact on our state and nation and acknowledge their unique role in shaping our future. Together, we will explore new pathways to promote inclusive innovation, capacity building and community empowerment, ensuring the legacy of our HBCUs continues to flourish in the years to come.”
The tour will encompass conversations with all 10 of Georgia’s public and private HBCUs, including visits on campus at the Atlanta University Center, Albany State University, Fort Valley State University and Savannah State University.
Lt. Governor Burt Jones emphasized the importance of the endeavor, stating, “I want to express my gratitude to Senator Halpern for these tours and discussions. As we prepare for the 2024 Legislative Session, gaining insights into the initiatives at our HBCUs is crucial. I anticipate our collaboration will lead to meaningful advancements, ensuring legislation like the HBCU Innovation and Economic Prosperity Planning Districts Commission remains a priority.”
For Senator Halpern, these HBCU tours are not merely visits but a vibrant dialogue that aligns with the heart of Georgia’s post-secondary educational goals. They embody her vision of a Georgia that thrives on inclusive economic growth and boundless opportunity for all.
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Sen. Sonya Halpern serves as Vice Chair of the Senate Democratic Caucus. She represents Senate District 39 which includes neighborhoods across the five cities of Atlanta, College Park, City of South Fulton, East Point and Union City, all in Fulton County. She can be reached at 404.463.1351 or at sonya.halpern@senate.ga.gov.