COEHD News

I realize colleges are focused on closing out a school year right now, and want to be sure that, in the midst of getting in grades and coordinating graduations, no one overlooks this announcement of an important grant opportunity from DOE. THECB hopes many institutions will submit compelling applications for this competition.

Time is short (a 45-day turn-around, applications due June 30), and THECB will be pleased to support your efforts in any way that we can. Only institutions of higher education are eligible to apply, but the agency can partner with you if you believe we can be helpful in your efforts (in data analysis, technical assistance, or some other function).

The total amount allocated for this competition is $75 million, with up to $20 million set aside for Minority Serving Institutions.

The DOE is hosting a stakeholder conference call about this opportunity with Secretary Arne Duncan on May 21 at 3:00 p.m. (Eastern time). To register, RSVP to Belen.Verdugo@ed.gov with "RSVP for FITW" in the subject line, before COB Tuesday, May 19 (first-come, first-serve registration). They will then follow up with call-in information.

A PDF of the announcement is attached, and link to the full RFP is provided here: http://www.gpo.gov/fdsys/pkg/FR-2014-05-16/html/2014-11463.htm

The DOE encourages institutions of higher education to put forward their most innovative and creative thinking to significantly expand postsecondary opportunity. Let us know if we can assist your efforts in any way, by contacting Mary Smith, Assistant Deputy Commissioner, at mary.smith@thecb.state.tx.us. Please see below for a summary of important information.

David Gardner