On Thursday Feb. 9, five Capitol students several college administrators traveled to Annapolis for Maryland Independent Higher Education Day, as declared by Gov. Martin O’Malley. The gathering recognized the vital role Maryland’s independent colleges and universities serve in the State, which boasts one of the best educated workforces in the nation.
Capitol’s students joined the Maryland Independent College and University Association (MICUA) and more than 200 other college students from across the state. To begin the event, students attended a briefing at the Historic Inns of Annapolis, Calvert House. Capitol’s Dr. Michael T. Wood, president, Melinda Bunnell-Rhyne, dean of student life and retention, and Dr. Michael G. Gibbs, vice president for advancement, were also in attendance.
Students then had the opportunity to meet with state legislators and elected officials, including Delegate Ana Sol Gutierrez, Delegate Geraldine Valentino-Smith and Delegate James W. Hubbard.
“This day provided an opportunity for our students to both lobby legislators on behalf of their college, and learn about the inner workings of state government,” Wood said. “It was personally rewarding to have our students with me as we interacted with our delegates and senators and with the 13 other independent colleges and universities in Maryland.”
The event was capped off by the awarding of the MICUA President’s Award to Maryland State Treasurer Nancy Kopp for her outstanding leadership on behalf of higher education in Maryland.
During their trip, Capitol students also took part in a rally for fiscal year 2013 operating and capital funds that was organized by MICUA, the Maryland Community College Association (MACC) and Morgan State University. Representative from 14 private colleges, 16 community colleges, and one public university met on the State House steps with a banner proclaiming “United for College Affordability.”
Maryland’s colleges and universities, including Capitol, serve a vital role in the State, which boasts one of the best educated workforces in the nation. Maryland is one of the most highly competitive states in the nation, ranking second in bachelor’s degree attainment. With a median household income of more than $64,000, Maryland ranks third nationally, according to 2010 U.S. Census data.