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Running head: HISTORICAL TIMELINE FINAL

Historical Timeline Final

Stephanie Cole

Georgia Southern University

History of American Higher Education

EDLD7432

Dr. Don Stumpf

December 11, 2013

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1833 Oberlin College

Oberlin College was the first college to accept minorities. This paved the way for
African Americans pursuing college degrees.

1940 College Enrollment Declines

During WWII, college enrollment declined because of military draft. Post war, the
government had to take drastic measures in order to get enrollment back up.

1944 GI Bill Introduced

The servicemans readjustment act also known as the GI bill was introduced. The GI
bill provided serviceman with educational, health and unemployment benefits to get
them readjusted as a civilian after discharge.

1946 President Truman Re-evaluates University Admissions Policies

President Truman wanted to allow individuals of all races, cultures and genders the
opportunity to obtain a college education. With this implementation everyone had
was eligible for financial aid, grants and scholarships.

1950 The National Science Foundation Act

The National Science Foundation Act was introduced to support and develop
scientific research. This NSFA was developed to enhance the health field, economy
and national security.

1965 The Pell Grant

Congress passed the Higher Education Act, this enabled students from low income
families to afford a college education with tuition assistance from the Pell grant and
low interest loans.

1972 Title IX Passed

President Nixon signed the Title IX that allowed male and female athletes the same
rights of participating in college sports. Racial and sexual discrimination no longer
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prevented minority male and females this right. As a result of this, students of color
were able to obtain a college education while showcasing their athletic talents.

1986 Historically Black College Act

Congress allowed the funding of historically black colleges. This funding allowed
enabled the HSBCs to stay in business after the desegregation laws.

In conclusion, I believe the above timeline are crucial to the development of the
higher education system in America because I am a product of most of these
events. I wouldnt have been able to attend college to obtain an undergraduate
degree and a good career without most of these Policies, Acts and Grants.