HONORING THE 150TH ANNIVERSARY OF PRAIRIE VIEW A&M UNIVERSITY

On 2026-09-14, Representative Christian D. Menefee (D-TX-18) delivered a floor speech titled "HONORING THE 150TH ANNIVERSARY OF PRAIRIE VIEW A&M UNIVERSITY" in the House.

HONORING THE 150TH ANNIVERSARY OF PRAIRIE VIEW A&M UNIVERSITY

Congressional Record, Volume 172 Issue 144 (Monday, September 14, 2026) [Congressional Record Volume 172, Number 144 (Monday, September 14, 2026)] [Extensions of Remarks] [Page E901] From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [ www.gpo.gov ] HONORING THE 150TH ANNIVERSARY OF PRAIRIE VIEW A&M UNIVERSITY ______ HON. CHRISTIAN D. MENEFEE of texas in the house of representatives Monday, September 14, 2026 Mr. MENEFEE. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to honor Prairie View A&M University, on the occasion of its 150th anniversary celebration for its outstanding contributions to higher education. Prairie View A&M began as an Agricultural and Mechanical College for the ``colored youth'' with just 8 students. Today, it stands as Texas' second oldest public institution and a leading Carnegie-classified R2 research university, enrolling more than 10,000 proud Productive Panthers. As an exemplary Historically Black College and University, Prairie View A&M is home to numerous distinguished research centers and institutes, including the National Center for Infrastructure Technology and the Texas Juvenile Crime Prevention Center. Throughout its history, the University has expanded access to higher education, particularly for underrepresented communities, by fostering an environment of growth, academic achievement, and innovation. Under the visionary leadership of President Dr. Tomikia P. LeGrande, Prairie View A&M has launched its ``Journey to Eminence'' plan, an ambitious effort to elevate the institution as a premier public historically Black university and a national model for student success, with an emphasis on research excellence, increased graduation rates, and strong post-graduate outcomes. Prairie View A&M's legacy stands as a testament to the power of access, opportunity, and academic excellence. Its impact will continue to shape generations of leaders for years to come. Mr. Speaker, on behalf of the people of Texas, I commend Prairie View A&M University on this remarkable milestone and extend my deepest gratitude for 150 years of service to students, to Texas, and to the Nation. ____________________