New American Citizens made for the First Time at a Black College (HBCU)

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Virginia State University hosted a Naturalization Ceremony on campus recently for 73 candidates to become sworn citizens of the United States of America. This is the first time a Naturalization Ceremony has been held at a Historically Black College and University (HBCU).

 The newly sworn citizens ranged in age from 19 to 76 years old and were natives of 40 countries. They have been contributing members to American society in several capacities, including one member of the U.S. Army Reserves.

The ceremony, held on November 14th, was the final requirement for becoming lawful permanent residents of the United States.

 "You are American, and now it's your turn to be a builder," said keynote speaker and Virginia Governor Glenn Youngkin. "America is the only nation in the history of the world founded on an idea—not geography. One nation, under God, with liberty and justice for all," the governor told the new crop of U.S. citizens.