H.R. No. 3163
R E S O L U T I O N
WHEREAS, For the past 25 years, the VAST Academy of Houston
Community College has effectively provided postsecondary education
to Texans with intellectual and developmental disabilities; and
WHEREAS, Launched in 1990 as one of the first programs of its
kind in the nation, the VAST Academy offers differently abled
individuals the chance to receive postsecondary vocational
training and to earn a meaningful credential that will enable them
to find work and achieve independence; students also receive
training in such life skills as computer literacy, work etiquette,
health and fitness, and financial literacy; the program provides
further enrichment through the student organization the Eagles
Club, which hosts a variety of notable events, including employment
workshops, a health and beauty expo, and a blood drive, and which
has consistently been named Student Organization of the Year; and
WHEREAS, The academy began with 55 students and one
instructor, and today it serves more than 150 students annually at
three locations in the Houston area; in addition to drawing
students from throughout the HCC district, the program offers a
residential option that has attracted students from across Texas
and around the nation; since its inception, the academy has
provided instruction to more than 3,000 men and women; and
WHEREAS, The VAST Academy has partnered with over 60
companies and businesses in the region, and half of the program's
graduates each year find jobs in child care, animal care,
housekeeping, customer service, food service, and other types of
employment; and
WHEREAS, Over the past quarter-century, the HCC-VAST Academy
has continued to fulfill its critical mission, giving its students
the opportunity to feel the pride of achievement and helping them to
build fulfilling, productive, and independent lives; now,
therefore, be it
RESOLVED, That the House of Representatives of the 84th Texas
Legislature hereby commend the Houston Community College VAST
Academy for providing quality postsecondary education to Texans
with intellectual and developmental disabilities and extend to the
staff and students of the academy sincere best wishes for continued
success in their important work; and, be it further
RESOLVED, That an official copy of this resolution be
prepared for the VAST Academy as an expression of high regard by the
Texas House of Representatives.
Naishtat
______________________________
Speaker of the House
I certify that H.R. No. 3163 was adopted by the House on May
29, 2015, by a non-record vote.
______________________________
Chief Clerk of the House