Lawmakers comment on federal report of state’s underfunding of Langston University

OKLAHOMA CITY – Sen. George Young and Rep. Jason Lowe both expressed disappointment, but not surprise, after the release of a federal report on Oklahoma’s underfunding of Langston University. On Monday, the U.S. Department of Agriculture and the U.S. Department of Education notified governors of 16 states, including Oklahoma, that their land-grant Historical Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) had been underfunded by more than $12 billion compared to white land-grant institutions. Land-grant colleges and universities such as Langston and Oklahoma State University (OSU), were created in the 1890’s to provide access to agricultural education and other programs.

The funding disparity in Oklahoma was reported by federal officials as approaching $419 million over the last 30 years, compared to OSU. The lawmakers issued statements Thursday saying the resources are available and that a resolution was long overdue.

“$419 million is a lot of money to the coffers of almost any institution, but to Langston it’s a substantial sum to help the realm of education in our state. Langston is world renowned for its agriculture work and for physical therapy. We can’t recoup the lost opportunities, but we can build from here. I can only imagine how that will enhance the addition of the broadcasting facility recently acquired in Oklahoma City. This ‘oversight’ has been well publicized and investigated. It is time to correct it! PAY UP!!!”  - Sen. George Young, D-Oklahoma City

“As a proud HBCU graduate and Langston University supporter, I am disappointed to learn that Langston has been underfunded by $419 million by the state of Oklahoma. Clearly, Democrats and Republicans have failed this great institution. Education is the gateway to success, and Langston University should be funded on the same level as other public institutions across this state. I look forward to examining this issue in greater detail during the upcoming legislative session.”  - Rep. Jason Lowe, D-Oklahoma City

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For more information, contact:  Sen. George Young at 405-521-5531 or George.Young@oksenate.gov