Congressman Cohen Announces $1.28 Million Department Of Education Grant For LeMoyne-Owen

Washington, DC -- Today Congressman Steve Cohen (TN-09) announced the award of a U.S. Department of Education grant in the amount of $1,285,107 to LeMoyne-Owen College for the period of 10/01/2007 through 09/30/2008. The funding is from the HBCU (Historically Black Colleges and Universities)-Institutional Aid Program. According to the Department of Education, it is anticipated that the program will be for a total of 5 years. The purpose of the HBCU Program is to provide financial assistance to establish or strengthen the academic resources, financial management, endowments and physical plants of historically Black colleges and universities to enhance such institutions. Authority for the program is contained in Title III, Part B, Section 321 of the Higher Education Act of 1965.

Reached in Memphis, LeMoyne-Owen’s interim President Dr. Johnnie Watson stated, "This grant of $1.2 million for 2007-2008 will continue to afford LeMoyne-Owen the opportunity to strengthen its academic support and facilities-enhancement programs that may be otherwise cost prohibitive. I believe that this ongoing funding over the past 35 years plus is a testament to LeMoyne-Owen’s continuing positive contributions to our students and our community."

Congressman Cohen stated, "I’m very pleased that LeMoyne-Owen is being awarded this DOE grant. However, this grant is but a piece of the puzzle for LeMoyne-Owen to remain a viable educational institution in our city. There is still a need for significant private contributions to LeMoyne-Owen if it is to continue its educational mission."

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Contact:

Marilyn Dillihay, Press Secretary, Congressman Cohen (202) 225-3265