Governor Abbott Announces $2 Million Grant To Austin Community College District In Support Of Army Futures Command
Governor Greg Abbott today announced a $2 million grant from the Texas Military Preparedness Commission’s (TMPC) Defense Economic Adjustment Assistance Grant (DEAAG) program to the Austin Community College District in partnership with The University of Texas and the U.S. Army. The funds will be used for the buildout of facilities supporting the new Army Futures Command in Austin, the site recently announced by the U.S. Department of Defense.
“The legacy of America’s freedom depends in part on the ability of our Armed Forces to remain at the forefront of technological advancement, expand our military’s power to assess threats, and modernize our defense,” said Governor Abbott. “These funds to be invested in critical communication facilities are another example of our commitment to the mission of the military as the Army Futures Command harnesses innovative thinking and cutting-edge technologies to achieve a clear overmatch in future readiness in defense of our nation.”
“On behalf of the Soldiers and civilians on the Army Futures Command team, we are extremely appreciative of the continued assistance as we make our home here in Austin. We specifically thank the Texas Military Preparedness Commission, the Austin Community College District, and the University of Texas for their efforts in supporting the buildout of our headquarters with the award of a $2 million grant through the Defense Economic Adjustment Assistance Grant (DEAAG) program. Their collective efforts will enable us to improve our partnerships with the best of American industry, academia and innovation as we work together to protect America’s tomorrows-today,” said Gen. John “Mike” Murray, Commanding General, U.S. Army Futures Command.
“With profound gratitude to Governor Abbott and the Texas Military Preparedness Commission, we applaud their continued recognition of the extraordinary benefits the Army Futures Command will bring to the Texas and Austin economies and to institutions of higher education throughout the state,” said UT System Chancellor James B. Milliken. “In fact, all Americans will be well served by the Army Futures Command’s efforts to accelerate and revolutionize the Army’s capabilities, and we enthusiastically look forward to being among their strongest collaborative partners.”
"Austin Community College is honored to receive this grant and proud to work with the University of Texas System to support the U.S. Army," says Dr. Richard Rhodes, ACC president and CEO. "Together, we will build the support systems that will help strengthen our national defenses through new innovative technologies."
The Governor previously announced over $50 million in DEAAG awards to military installations across Texas over the last two biennium, also awarded by TMPC.
The Texas Military Preparedness Commission is part of the Governor’s Office and advises the Governor and the Legislature on defense and military issues and ways to strengthen the position of Texas military installations and other defense-related issues. The commission is composed of 13 members serving 6-year staggered terms, typically representing an installation in their community.