A robust humanities education is critical to cultivating a broadly-educated workforce ready to compete in the knowledge-based, global 21st Century economy. From the basic building blocks of early education, to the highest levels of academic attainment, humanities fields provide individuals from all disciplines, including science, technology, engineering, & mathematics (STEM), with critical thinking, problem-solving, communication, and analytical skills, competencies, and the expertise needed to fill public, private, and non-profit sector jobs. AAU urges Congress to continue the long-standing practice of funding NEH at the same level as the National Endowment for the Arts.