SENATE RESOLUTION NO. 277

WHEREAS, The Senate of the State of Texas is pleased to join citizens around the state in celebrating February 28, 2017, as Prairie View A&M University Day at the Capitol; and

WHEREAS, On August 14, 1867, the Texas Legislature established the Alta Vista Agricultural and Mechanical College of Texas for Colored Youth, the first state-supported college in Texas for African Americans; and

WHEREAS, Now known as Prairie View A&M University, the school is the second-oldest public institution in Texas and is ranked among the nation's best colleges and universities; its diverse student population can choose among 50 baccalaureate programs, 37 master's programs, and four doctoral programs; and

WHEREAS, Prairie View A&M University is known as a leading institution for higher learning in areas including agricultural research, architecture, biology, business, education, engineering, juvenile justice, and nursing; students benefit from a challenging curriculum that will help them thrive in their chosen careers; and

WHEREAS, Throughout its distinguished history, Prairie View A&M University has awarded approximately 46,000 academic degrees; it is a leader among historically black colleges and universities and a valuable part of The Texas A&M University System; now, therefore, be it

RESOLVED, That the Senate of the State of Texas, 85th Legislature, hereby commend the educators, staff, and administrators of Prairie View A&M University and extend to them best wishes for a memorable Prairie View A&M University Day at the Capitol; and, be it further

RESOLVED, That a copy of this Resolution be prepared for the university as a token of esteem from the Texas Senate. Kolkhorst

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President of the Senate

I hereby certify that the above Resolution was adopted by the Senate on February 22, 2017.

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Secretary of the Senate

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Member, Texas Senate