Washington, D.C. – Congresswoman Frederica Wilson (FL-24), ranking member of the Higher Education and Workforce Development Subcommittee, has announced her distinguished guests for the upcoming State of the Union Address, tonight (Thursday) at 9 p.m.

Joining Wilson at the event will be Dr. Larry Robinson, president of Florida Agricultural and Mechanical University (FAMU), and Dr. Malou C. Harrison, executive vice president and provost of Miami Dade College (MDC).

Both individuals exemplify dedication and excellence within educational institutions, underscoring Wilson’s commitment to supporting higher education and historically minority-serving institutions (MSI).

"I am honored to have Dr. Robinson and Dr. Harrison as my guests for the State of the Union address," Wilson said.

"Their dedication to their respective institutions and students is exemplary, and their presence serves as a testament to the transformative power of education.

“As we tackle the challenges and opportunities facing higher education,” the congresswoman said, “we must continue to support our educators, institutions, and HBCUs to ensure that every student has access to quality education and the opportunity to thrive.”

Wilson emphasizes universities’ pivotal role in shaping the nation’s future by serving and empowering students. As the ranking member of the Higher Education Committee and a lifelong educator herself, she highlights the importance of providing unwavering support to educators and their institutions.

She not only has stressed that investing in education is an investment in the prosperity and progress of American society, but also has proposed legislation such as the LOAN Act, which helps lower the cost of college for current and future borrowers.

As an alumna of an HBCU, Wilson also has advocated for HBCUs, recognizing their unique contributions to higher education and their historical significance in providing opportunities for underserved communities.

Hosting Robinson, a leader in one of Florida’s premier HBCUs, and Harrison, representing one of the nation’s largest and most diverse community colleges, again signals Wilson’s commitment to championing diversity, equity and inclusion in education.

Harrison brings over 35 years of distinguished leadership in public higher education, focusing on underserved students. With more than three decades at Miami Dade College (MDC), she’s held diverse roles, including campus president and Dean of Students. Dr.

Harrison spearheaded numerous impactful partnership initiatives promoting equity, academic excellence and student achievement. Her adept resource development secured substantial funding from private and public entities like the National Science Foundation and the U.S. Department of Education.

Robinson, the 12th president of Florida A&M University (FAMU), is a distinguished professor and researcher in the School of the Environment. With a career marked by notable accomplishments in academia, research, and administration, Robinson’s leadership roles at FAMU have been varied and impactful.

Robinson’s extensive contributions include directing FAMU’s Environmental Sciences Institute, overseeing academic affairs as provost and vice president, and leading the university’s research initiatives.

Additionally, his involvement in national endeavors such as the STEM Education Advisory Panel and his service as assistant secretary of Commerce for Conservation and Management at NOAA highlights his dedication to advancing scientific innovation and education.

Robinson’s research interests, spanning environmental chemistry, radiochemistry, and policy, reflect his passion for addressing pressing environmental challenges and shaping sustainable solutions. His multifaceted expertise and leadership have left an indelible mark at FAMU and beyond.

The State of the Union address provides a platform to highlight the nation’s critical issues. Wilson’s choice of guests reflects her advocacy for policies that promote educational equity and excellence.

The seventh-term lawmaker from Florida, represents parts of Northern Miami-Dade and Southeast Broward counties. A former state legislator and lifelong educator, she founded the 5000 Role Models of Excellence Project, a mentoring and dropout prevention program for boys and young men of color.

Wilson is also the founder and chair of the U.S. Commission on the Social Status of Black Men and Boys, and serves on the Early Childhood, Elementary, and Secondary Education Subcommittee.