Latest news, weather and high school sports for Albany and Southwest Georgia

ALBANY, GA --
Albany State University has gotten a financial boost courtesy of a $3.7 million grant from the Unites States Department of Education.

ASU is listed among 97 Historically Black Colleges and Universities to receive the grant.

“These funds are invaluable because they provide the resources that help us to strengthen the infrastructure of Albany State University. Strategically budgeting these funds results in stronger academic programs, enhanced technological and physical facilities, and more effective faculty and staff. The overarching goal is to increase the enrollment, retention and graduation of highly qualified students,” said ASU Title III Program Director Connie Leggett in the press release.

Albany State says that Title III is funded under the 1965 Higher Education Act Strengthening Historically Black Colleges and Universities Program to bolster the institutions. The grant covers the budget period October 1, 2012 through September 30, 2013.

Program activities for which funds may be used include curriculum reform; counseling and student service programs; establishing teacher education programs designed to qualify students to teach; acquiring real-estate property in connection with construction, renovations, or additions that may improve campus facilities; and funding faculty and staff development. In addition, funds may be used for the purchase, rental, or lease of scientific or laboratory equipment and the development of academic instruction in disciplines where African Americans are underrepresented.

“HBCUs have made enduring, even staggering contributions to American life despite the steep financial challenges many have faced,” U.S. Secretary of Education Arne Duncan said about the grant. “The grants will help these important institutions continue to provide their students with the quality education they need to compete in the global economy.