Through several sources, we confirmed that the United States Secretary of Education, Betsy DeVos, has been scheduled to be the commencement speaker at the 2017 graduation ceremony for Bethune-Cookman University (BCU) in Daytona Beach, Florida, on May 10, 2017.
Since the announcement of her nomination as the U.S. Secretary of Education, DeVos has been one of the most controversial members of President Donald Trump’s administration. She was only confirmed when Vice President Pence broke the 50-50 tie. In February, DeVos made an unsettling statement inferring that HBCUs are the “real pioneers when it comes to school choice.” Although she corrected herself the next day, the damage was already done. It would be enough if that was the only error DeVos has committed to insult the HBCU community.
Last month DeVos weakened consumer protection for student loan borrowers. According to U.S. News & World Report, 97 percent of full-time undergraduates who attend BCU receive some sort of need-based financial aid.
With all the facts provided, why on earth would Bethune-Cookman University invite Secretary DeVos to be the commencement speaker for their spring graduation ceremony?
Betsy DeVos doesn’t understand that HBCUs were created because African Americans were excluded from mainstream institutions. Secretary DeVos has no understanding of the importance, contributions, and significance of HBCUs.
Having DeVos speak at the commencement ceremony is an insult to the BCU graduating class, students, alumni, family, friends, and Dr. Mary McLeod Bethune’s legacy.We, the proud alumni of Bethune-Cookman University, do not want Betsy DeVos to have a seat at our table. Please rescind her invitation to speak at the graduation ceremony.