Civil and Human Rights Coalition Applauds President’s Commitment to Increasing College Affordability

Washington – Wade Henderson, president and CEO of The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights, issued the following statement in response to President Obama’s announcement of an ambitious plan to increase college affordability by linking a new collegiate performance rating system, based largely on student educational outcomes, with federal student aid:

 “President Obama’s bold plan to increase college affordability shows an enduring commitment to creating opportunities for all Americans to pursue higher education.

The President’s plan represents a significant step toward increased economic opportunity for low-income students, students of color, women and nontraditional students. For these Americans, earning a college degree is not a luxury; it’s an absolute lifeline and the most effective route to the middle class.

We applaud the President’s continued commitment to increasing college affordability, mitigating student debt and increasing consumer awareness, and urge the administration and Congress to take all necessary steps to ensure high quality college education is accessible and affordable to all Americans.”

The Leadership Conference on Civil and Human Rights is a coalition charged by its diverse membership of more than 200 national organizations to promote and protect the rights of all persons in the United States. The Leadership Conference works toward an America as good as its ideals. For more information on The Leadership Conference and its 200-plus member organizations.