IL HR0355

Declares a Black student enrollment crisis in Illinois, noting that Black student enrollment in Illinois higher education has declined nearly 40% since 2013, with the University of Illinois experiencing annual declines since 1997 and reaching all-time lows.

Identifies that higher education completion correlates with higher household incomes, low unemployment, strong homeownership, and reduced crime, while declining Black student enrollment will worsen existing challenges in Black communities.

Urges all Illinois higher education institutions to establish dedicated offices or departments with adequate staff to focus on Black student recruitment, immediate enrollment, and scholarship programs.

Urges the Governor to direct emergency funds toward enrollment outreach and completion programs designed to increase Black student enrollment at Illinois higher education institutions.