Congressman Larson Commends Obama's Action on Community Colleges

FORIMMEDIATE RELEASE: July 14, 2009

CONTACT:Emily Barocas/202.225.7295

CONGRESSMAN LARSON COMMENDS OBAMA’S ACTION ON COMMUNITY COLLEGES

Urges President toinclude technology outreach in his plan

Washington, DC – CongressmanJohn B. Larson (CT-01), Chairman of the House Democratic Caucus, issuedthe following statement in response to President Barack Obama’s announcement ofhis new American Graduation Initiative:

“President Obama once again displayed hisgift for transformational leadership when he announced this morning aninnovative initiative to strengthen community colleges across the country sothey can build the American workforce of the future. I am a strongbeliever that community colleges can be a hub for technology and job trainingin our communities if they are given the resources that our schools and studentsneed.

I’ve introduced The Community CollegeTechnology Access Act, developed with the support of the NDN, which will openthe doors of community college technology labs and training opportunities tothe public in order to provide workers who are lacking key computer skills theopportunity to attain them. By broadening their mission, communitycolleges have the potential to be a hub to train our workforce for the jobs ofthe future. My legislation helps them fulfill their potential and boosts localeconomies around the country. I commend the President’s leadership onthis issue and look forward to working with him on it.”

###