Washington, D.C.--Congressman Eliot Engel secured a preliminary $300,000 in appropriations funding for Rockland Community College (RCC), as part of the FY 2010 Energy and Water Appropriations bill.

Funding will be used to upgrade and replace six science labs supporting instruction in biology, engineering, and physics. This action was a preliminary step in a long process. The bill will now be considered by the full House Appropriations Committee, and then the full House. The Senate is also working on their version of the bill.

“This funding would greatly aid Rockland Community College in training our next generation of scientists. Congress has been making a substantial investment in education, specifically in scientific research, beginning with the American Recovery and Reinvestment Act and $17 billion invested in scientific research and billions more into education,” said Rep. Engel. “RCC plays such an important role in the economic development of Rockland County, as well as the educational development of Rockland’s youth.”

“It is very important for the college to have state-of-the-art science laboratories. We have a large nursing program and it is crucial to have these upgrades in order to give them a quality education. We are really grateful to Congressman Engel for all he has done and continues to do for our school,” said RCC President Cliff Wood.

Rep. Engel added, “While this is only the beginning of the Appropriations process, I am pleased my efforts to obtain funding for this important program were included in this measure. I will continue working with my colleagues to ensure this funding is preserved as the bill moves through the legislative process.”