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Washington, D.C. -- U.S. Rep. Frank Pallone, Jr. (D-NJ) today expressed his support for continuing Douglass College as a four year all women's college within the boundaries of Rutgers - the State University of New Jersey. Pallone visited the Douglass campus today and spoke with a college class about current issues facing Congress, as well as the debate over the future of their school.
Pallone followed up by sending a letter to Rutgers' President Richard McCormick, asking him 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. (TEXT OF LETTER FOLLOWS)
"I believe the restructuring process provides Rutgers University with a unique opportunity to lead the field in women's education and to showcase Douglass College as a model for the rest of the nation," Pallone wrote.
In the letter, Pallone voiced his support for the goals set forth in the Undergraduate Education Task Force Report designed to streamline the admissions process and consolidate many administrative functions. He expressed his hope that these goals could be met while still maintaining the most significant aspects of Douglass College.
"There are some important elements that define Douglass College that must be retained if it is to continue to be an asset to New Jersey," Pallone wrote. "It should be an entity with its historic name and with a clearly designated student body. Moreover, Douglass College should have curricular elements that permit it to focus on women's education and leadership as it has done in the past.
"Over the years, the Deans of Douglass College have been able to do this work because they have been able to link student and academic affairs under the heading of Douglass College with the authority to devote resources to all aspects of the advancement of women," Pallone continued. "This responsibility should be maintained. It is my hope that the Board of Governors will recognize that eliminating Douglass College's unique status could well result in a net loss to Rutgers University on many levels."
Pallone's letter today follows a letter he sent to the Rutgers President last July voicing his opposition to proposed plans to close Douglass College. |
