Republican National Committee Chair Reince Priebus lauded the opportunity for public discourse at Central State University on Wednesday as he and students celebrated the launch of the historically black university’s new College Republican chapter.
Priebus attended the launch of the school’s new chapter in Wilberforce, Ohio, and spoke with students about the good that can come from having such an organization on campus.
“Today is a great day for the Republican Party and for Central State University,” he said in a statement. “No matter which side of the political aisle students find themselves, the addition of a College Republicans chapter ensures more vibrant political discourse on campus and that’s always a good thing.”
Currently, several historically black colleges and universities boast College Republican chapters, including Morehouse University in Atlanta, Ga., and Fisk University in Nashville, Tenn.
Austin Harris, chairman of Central State University’s new chapter, said he hopes to bring Republican ideas and policies to his fellow students.
“We’re proud of what we were able to accomplish with the formation of this chapter,” he said. “We welcome and support anyone interested in learning more about the Republican Party. Our mission and responsibility is to recruit, mobilize and energize our peers on campus as we work toward sharing a message of expanded opportunity and access to avenues of upward mobility.”
Republicans have been working to boost outreach to both young voters and African-Americans, and are expanding their network to include historically black universities and colleges. Sen. Rand Paul (R-Ky.) visited Howard University, a HBCU in Washington, D.C., last April. Though students were skeptical, they welcomed the Tea Party darling to campus.
Paul has adamantly called for the GOP to transform and improve reach to the African-American community. He has also been a vocal opponent of mandatory minimums and the War on Drugs, and said such policies have had tremendous negative effects on African-Americans.
Sen. Tim Scott (R-S.C.) also headed to Howard University in February, where students were pleasantly surprised by his case for Republican policies and ideals. The conservative discussed his ideas about education reform and told students about his journey from small-business owner to senator.
In a press release announcing Priebus’ visit to Central State University, RNC co-chair Sharon Day spoke of the significance of the Republican Party reaching out to young people at historically black colleges and universities.
“These students will go on to make a positive impact in their communities, our party, and our country,” she said. “I congratulate these students for demonstrating their commitment to making a difference and look forward to their bright futures.”
