Peter Wyckoff, another of my fine colleagues, recently testified in the state legislature on the importance of publicly funding the kind of work we do here at UMM. PeeZed’s got the whole transcript up, so I’ll let you go there to read Pete’s fine words.
I really appreciate how nicely Pete addresses the impact of falling state support on first generation college students. One of the things I’ve gotten the most from here at UMM is working with first gen college students, seeing how important and changing this experience can be for them and their families.
One of the early students I did research with was a first generation college student, having grown up on a farm. He was an excellent programmer and did great work, which was why I asked him to work with me; I didn’t know anything about his background at the time. When he graduated two years later his family threw a big graduation party for him, and I still remember how proud they all were. For his dad it was vital that his son get out of farming and into something with a future, and UMM and computer science was how that happened. I never knew much about their financials, but I’m sure that our low cost was important to his being able to attend UMM.
In a world that’s changing so fast as to be unrecognizable from one year to the next, it’s pretty crucial (economically, politically, socially) that we have broadly educated, flexible people out there working the massive problems that face us. A good liberal arts education is one of the best tools to that end, and we sure as hell can’t afford to waste bright people who’s only crime is being born without Our Fearless Leader’s silver spoon in their mouths.
I’m grateful that people like Pete are working so hard and so well to get that message before those who determine the availability of this opportunity. I’d keep an eye on Mr. Wyckoff – he’s a very bright, eloquant guy and has the possibilities of a successful (and good) politician all over.
… as one of those first generation college graduates, who has continued on to a Masters and additonal doctoral work, and been able to send the next generation through college … I couldnt agree more.
I’m a first generation college attendee too. Without the financial support of the British tax payer I would never have been able to attend college. It’s a shame they’ve gone back on this committment in the UK these days. Under current conditions I would never have had the opportunity to attend college.
It’s hard to imagine two finer examples! Thanks to you both for sharing.
…. ’tis quite an honor to be categorized with WeatherGirl !!