Huston-Tillotson University President Named To Federal Advisory Council
Wednesday Sep, 18 2024
Wallace was one of 20 members appointed to U.S. Environmental Protection Agency’s (EPA) HBCU-MSI Federal Advisory Council
Austin, Texas – September 18, 2024 – Houston-Tillotson University President Melva K. Wallace was one of twenty (20) members named to the inaugural Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Minority Serving Institutions (HBCU-MSI) Federal Advisory Council. This council marks a significant milestone in EPA’s commitment to fostering diversity, equity, and inclusion within environmental policymaking and workforce development.
The HBCU-MSI Federal Advisory Council will provide independent advice and recommendations to EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan on strategies to help diversify the agency’s workforce, support the professional development of environmental leaders, and ensure that HBCUs and MSIs receive the resources and support they need to thrive. The council’s insights will be crucial in guiding the EPA’s efforts to address environmental justice issues and enhance community engagement.
“We are honored to have such a distinguished group of leaders join the first-ever HBCU-MSI Advisory Council,” said EPA Administrator Michael S. Regan. “Each member brings a wealth of experience, knowledge, and a deep commitment to advancing environmental justice and helping to diversify contributions to environmental policies. Their unique perspectives will be invaluable as we continue to ensure that all communities have a voice in our shared work to protect public health and the environment, to empower the next generation of environmental leaders, and to support these vital institutions for generations to come.”
“I consider it a singular honor to join the EPA’s Historically Black Colleges and Universities and Minority Serving Institutions Federal Advisory Council,” Wallace said. “This appointment is a reflection of Huston-Tillotson University’s steadfast commitment to fostering leadership and advocacy in environmental justice and sustainability. I look forward to working alongside my colleagues to ensure that our institutions, and the communities we serve, are at the forefront of shaping policies that address critical environmental issues and promote equitable solutions for all. Together, we will create pathways for future generations to thrive in a cleaner, healthier world.”
The HBCU-MSI FAC is part of the Biden-Harris Administration’s broader efforts to promote equity in economic and educational opportunities, protect public health, and preserve the environment. Minority Serving Institutions (MSIs), which include Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs), Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs), Tribal Colleges and Universities (TCUs), and Asian American, Native Hawaiian, and Pacific Islander Serving Institutions (AANHPISIs), play a critical role in educating and preparing diverse leaders.
The establishment of the HBCU-MSI FAC supports President Biden’s Executive Order 14035, which seeks to advance diversity, equity, inclusion, and accessibility (DEIA) within the federal workforce. This Executive Order underscores the importance of a federal workforce that reflects the full diversity of the American people. The HBCU-MSI FAC aligns with this vision, ensuring that diverse voices contribute to shaping the EPA’s policies and practices.
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About Huston-Tillotson University
Huston-Tillotson University, the first institution of higher education in Austin, Texas, has roots dating back to 1875. HT is an independent, church-related, historically black, four-year liberal arts institution located on a 23-acre tree-lined campus near downtown in East Austin. Huston-Tillotson University’s mission is a faith-based historically black college and university (HBCU) nestled in the vibrant heart of downtown Austin, Texas. The institution provides a robust liberal arts and STEM education through market-driven certifications, associate, baccalaureate, master’s degrees, and centers of excellence. HT remains committed to its legacy of educating a mosaic community of learners while cultivating innovative leaders who are dedicated to academic excellence and service. The University offers associate and master’s degrees in addition to Bachelor of Arts and Bachelor of Science degrees in more than 19 areas of study. Huston-Tillotson University is accredited by the Southern Association of Colleges and Schools Commission on Colleges (SACSCOC) to award associate, baccalaureate and master’s degrees. HT is also an NC-SARA school. For more information, please visit www.htu.edu.
