Senator Cardin Visits HCC

U.S. Senator Ben Cardin visited Howard Community College Friday, February 5 to discuss college affordability and to hear students share their concerns. Students opened up about challenges they face paying tuition, how financial aid has helped and where there is room for improvement, as well as their worries about paying for college after they transfer or for their children. Senator Cardin also discussed his support for President Obama’s “America’s College Promise” proposal, which would make community college tuition free for responsible students.

“Maryland’s students and their families shouldn’t have to saddle themselves with generational debt to pursue their educational aspirations. We need to remember that we’ve taught our children that the American dream is achievable for those individuals willing to pursue an education and work hard,” said Senator Cardin. “These students are investing considerable effort and resources to better themselves, and their successes in the classroom will translate over time to resilient regional economies, lower unemployment and an even stronger culture of innovation in Maryland.”

“The cost of college keeps some students from attending or slows their progress toward completion,” said Dr. Kathleen Hetherington, president of Howard Community College. “Community colleges are the most affordable option in higher education, but we need continued support to ensure students graduate from college free from debt.”

Read the resulting Baltimore Sun article here.

For photos of the event, visit HCC's Flickr site here.