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Trenton, N.J. -- U.S. Rep. Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) today expressed his support for Douglass College by sending a representative, and Douglass Alum, from his office to deliver remarks at the "Rally for Douglass College" on the front steps of the State House in Trenton.
Pallone could not attend the rally, due to the voting schedule of the U.S. House of Representatives. Alex Maldonado, a 2000 graduate of Douglass College and District Field Representative for Pallone, represented the New Jersey Congressman at the rally and shared the following remarks:
"Dear Douglass Students, Professors, Administrators and loyal Alumnae,
If Congress were not in session today, I would be standing with you, adding my voice to the cause of saving Douglass College. As your representative in Washington, you can be assured I am with you 100 percent. President McCormick and the Board of Governors are well aware of my strong support for keeping Douglass as a four-year, all women's college. Rather than dissolve this wonderful and unique school, I have urged that Douglass College be showcased as a model to the nation for the education of women. The name, mission, traditions and uniqueness of Douglass must be retained and the student body clearly defined. The curriculum should reflect a focus on women's education and leadership. This is what has made Douglass College a great institution in the past and will make it an even greater institution in the future. Anything short of this would be a net loss not only to women's education, but to Rutgers University itself. Let's continue to make Douglass a proud and strong part of Rutgers University.
Sincerely,
FRANK PALLONE, JR.
Member of Congress
Pallone's remarks today follow two letters he has sent to the Rutgers President Richard McCormick, voicing his opposition to proposed plans to eliminate Douglass College and asking the President to consider the distinct benefits Douglass College offers New Jersey students prior to making his recommendation about restructuring the College to the Rutgers Board of Governors. |
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