Way to go President Obama!

This time last year we were celebrating the inauguration of our first African-American President.  

Many of us traveled to Washington D.C.  and stood in chilling temperatures to be a part of this great American history. 

President Barack Obama has not accomplished everything he said he would during his campaign, but I believe he is on his way. 

Obama can't do it alone. He must figure out a way to further unite the parties and convince the Republicans to stop creating stumbling blocks. 

One of Obama's first decisions was the signing of the stimulus package. Let me just    say thank you Mr. President! 

You made 2009 an excellent year for me. The stimulus package helped me become the owner of a 2009 car. 

I love the car, and I know I will love being able to deduct state, local and excise taxes on my car when I file this year. 

I will be smiling all the way to the bank when I get my tax refund. 

As a graduating senior, I am paying close attention to healthcare. When I graduate I will no longer have my parents' health insurance until I either find a job or personally pay for health insurance..

I hope that Obama will not let the election of Scott Brown, the new Republican senator from Massachusetts, deter him from reaching his goal of health care reform. 

I am still optimistic that Obama will get health care passed even though he no longer has the super majority 60-40 votes in favor of Democrats. 

What has Obama done for HBCUs? 

Some critics say he has not done anything or not enough but the truth is he has. According to an article in Black Voices by Dr. Boyce Watkins, Obama has allotted more money for HBCUs. 

See Dr. Boyce Watkins commentary here.

Obama did not extend the grant under the bill called College Cost Reduction and Access Act, but his fiscal year 2010 budget shows that he wants to give money to HBCUs. 

Obama plans to give $250 million to HBCUs and $61,425,000 to Historically Black Graduate Institutions. Added together this request represents a $20,830,000 increase over the previous year.  

Mr. President does care about the future of HBCUs. 

Obama is headed in the right direction.

He does not have all the answers, but he is listening to those around him to ensure he is effectively leading the country. 

I am eager and ready to see what Mr. Obama will do in 2010 to help all Americans.