Governor Martin O’Malley has declared Feb. 14 “Maryland Independent Higher Education Day” in recognition of the vital role Maryland’s independent colleges and universities serve in the State, which boasts one of the best educated workforces in the nation. The Maryland Independent College and University Association (MICUA) is bringing 200 college students and administrators from across the State to Annapolis for a day of special activities celebrating the 40th anniversary of the Sellinger Program, the State grant program for eligible, nonprofit private colleges.
Capitol College student Rogene Matthew is in attendance along with Dr. Michael T. Wood, president, Melinda Bunnell-Rhyne, dean of student life and retention, and Rachel Burns, assistant director of development. During their visit, the Capitol College representatives will have the opportunity to meet and talk with Maryland state legislators.
In the proclamation, Governor O’Malley commended the independent institutions for their significant contributions to higher education and recognized the broad public benefits these institutions provide by contributing to social mobility, economic prosperity, workforce development, scientific discoveries, global competitiveness, civic participation, and service to community. With the highest graduation rates in Maryland, MICUA institutions are committed to meeting the college completion agenda of the State and nation.
The day will begin with a student briefing at 10 a.m. in the Historic Inns of Annapolis, Calvert House. Following the briefing, students will visit with state legislators and elected officials. At noon, MICUA will host a lunch for elected officials, students and campus administrators in the West Wing of the Miller Senate Office Building. At 1 p.m., House Speaker Mike Busch will offer congratulations on behalf of the House of Delegates, and Senator Ed Kasemeyer will offer congratulations on behalf of the Senate.
Maryland’s institutions of higher education, public and private, produce the knowledge and conduct the research underpinning the State’s economy. Every year, MICUA colleges and universities serve 64,000 students, award 28% of all degrees conferred by a Maryland four-year institution, and attract $2.5 billion in research grants.
Twenty-first century jobs require high-level skills and education. Furthermore, the educational attainment of a population is directly linked to the economic prosperity of a state. Maryland is one of the most highly competitive states in the nation, with the most PhD scientists and engineers per capita, according to the Bureau of Labor Statistics. At $70,004, Maryland has the nation’s highest median household income, according to U.S. Census data.
Capitol College is the only independent college in Maryland dedicated to education in engineering, computer science, information technology and business through practices of leadership and innovation. It is one of 14 participating members of MICUA.