In a crucial move for the future of Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in Texas, State Representative Ron Reynolds has been appointed Chairman of the Texas HBCU Caucus. This decision, announced just last week, has garnered unanimous approval from Reynolds' colleagues in the Texas Legislature, a testament to the respect he commands across party lines.

Reynolds, preparing for his eighth term in the Texas House, is poised to lead a charge that seeks to address the glaring disparities in funding between Texas’ HBCUs and other state institutions. "Recent reports have shown that HBCUs have been woefully underfunded compared to other Texas colleges and universities," Reynolds said. "These campuses need resources to help students succeed—students who are often the first in their family to go to college, and who may not have the financial or academic support systems that others do. It's in all of our best interests for all students to succeed."

Reynolds' appointment as HBCU Caucus Chair comes as he enters his eighth term in the legislature, a position he earned after defeating an incumbent to become the first Black Representative from Fort Bend since Reconstruction. With his re-election secured by an impressive 70 percent of the vote, Reynolds now ranks 22nd in seniority out of the 150 representatives in the state.

While the state's financial challenges are vast, Reynolds' focus remains clear: advocating for the success of Texas HBCUs such as Texas Southern University, Prairie View A&M University, and others. These institutions play a pivotal role in shaping the future for Black and Hispanic students, and Reynolds is dedicated to ensuring they receive the necessary resources to thrive.

“The incoming new administration is against efforts to include African Americans,” Reynolds expressed with concern. “Look at the current cabinet—less representation than any cabinet in the last 50 years. The U.S. Supreme Court's recent ruling against affirmative action in enrollment is another setback. It is important now more than ever for Texas to champion diversity, equity, and inclusion.”

Reynolds' extensive background in advocacy, including his past leadership as Chairman of the Texas Legislative Black Caucus and the Texas Legislative Progressive Caucus, uniquely equips him to advocate for the needs of Texas HBCUs. As a graduate of both Texas Southern University and Texas Tech Law School, Reynolds has firsthand experience with the challenges and triumphs of these institutions.

"My perspective on the importance of HBCUs is deeply personal," Reynolds continued. "I am the father of three Black children. I understand that education is a gateway to opportunity, and I want to ensure that HBCUs continue to serve as this vital gateway for students across Texas."

As he prepares to advocate for Tier 1 status for Texas HBCUs, Reynolds is committed to securing funding that will elevate these institutions and attract top-tier professors from around the world. His vision is clear: ensure that Texas HBCUs are recognized as world-class institutions with the resources and opportunities to attract the best talent, benefiting Black, Hispanic, and all students across the state.

Reynolds acknowledges the challenges ahead, particularly with the rise of more extreme Republican voices in the legislature and concerns about the potential for voucher programs that would divert public funds from public schools. "We’re entering what could be one of the most contentious legislative sessions in recent history," he said. "But I am committed to fighting for HBCUs and the students they serve."

Houston Style Magazine readers, as Reynolds takes on this new leadership role, his work promises to have lasting, positive effects on the future of education in Texas. By focusing on equitable funding and opportunities for HBCUs, he is positioning himself as a leader not only for these institutions but for the future of all students in the state.

Reynolds’ message to the students and communities he represents is clear: the fight for educational equity and excellence will continue, with unwavering resolve. “It’s about ensuring that our students, particularly those from underserved communities, have the chance to succeed,” Reynolds said. “And I will fight for that, every step of the way.”