Good morning. I would like to thank the Chairman for holding today's hearing on the rising costs of higher education and tax policy.
I am proud to have many outstanding colleges and universities in my congressional district. Spelman, Morehouse, Georgia State, Clark Atlanta University, Morehouse School of Medicine, Georgia Tech, Agnes Scott, and Emory -- are just a few of the more than 80 institutions of higher learning in Metro Atlanta. These, and other colleges and universities across the country, play a critical role in our society. They educate our young people and create the skilled workforce that we need to compete with other countries around the world.
These institutions train future doctors, nurses, teachers, engineers, and scientists. They build the technology and develop the business leaders that will create a better tomorrow for generations yet unborn. At academic research centers, students and professors seek solutions to the most difficult issues facing the global family. They lead the way in searching for cures to cancer, Alzheimer's, HIV/ AIDS, and other diseases.
Perhaps most importantly, institutions of higher learning play a key role in expanding opportunity and reducing income inequality for those who have been left out and left behind for far too long. A college degree creates a significant advantage for an individual's lifetime earnings. For an example, in 2014 the average weekly earnings of a college graduate was over sixty percent higher than a worker with only a high school diploma.
Every year, higher education becomes more important to our nation's economic needs. Federal student aid programs -- like Pell grants and student loans -- are critical tools to ensure that a college education is affordable and accessible for all who aspire. In light of decreasing State support for higher education, it is more important than ever for the Federal government to do our part and play a role.
As Members of Congress, we have a mission, an obligation, and a mandate to keep the dream of higher education within the reach of every student. I look forward to hearing from today’s witnesses and thank you all for being here today. Thank you, Mr. Chairman, for holding this hearing.
