Lincoln University President Brenda A. Allen addresses the Pennsylvania House of Representatives in Harrisburg on June 20, 2018, as a guest of the Hon. John Lawrence.
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years, there has been much debate among state legislators regarding funding the state-related universities which—in addition to Lincoln University—include Penn State, Pittsburgh and Temple universities. The debates have often caused delays in the passing of the state budget. While there appears to be great support for Lincoln University at the local and state levels, state investment in higher education is decreasing nationwide. This trend must be considered as the University plans for its strategic investments over the next five years. During the visit to Harrisburg, Allen discussed the role of Lincoln University in improving the livelihood and social mobility of Pennsylvania residents with the Pennsylvania Legislative Black Caucus. She also discussed ways to strengthen Lincoln’s relationship with the Pennsylvania Department of Higher Education with Pedro Rivera, the state Hon. Sen. Vincent Hughes (left) with President secretary of education. Brenda A. Allen. Hughes received an honorary As the guest of the Hon. John Lawrence, degree at Lincoln’s Commencement in May 2018. whose district encompasses Lincoln’s tuition discounts to students who are main campus, during her address to the Pennsylvania House of Representatives residents of Pennsylvania. Nearly 50 percent of all University Allen stressed the need for increased state students are Commonwealth citizens. funding for the University and highlighted The University’s state appropriation its strengths and theme: “Learn. Liberate. represents nearly 25 percent of Lincoln’s Lead.” annual operating budget (an increase Due to the gracious efforts of Hon. Senator Vincent Hughes, Allen also from 17.5 percent in 2012). The University also receives financial received an official recognition from the assistance for capital projects. In recent Pennsylvania Senate.
staff photo/Bob Williams
resident Brenda A. Allen met with key lawmakers at the Pennsylvania State Capitol Complex in Harrisburg in June with a clear goal in mind: to extend Lincoln’s influence and presence. Why is the state legislature crucial to Lincoln’s long-term health? Lincoln University has been a member of the Commonwealth System of Higher Education since 1972. As a state-related institution, the Commonwealth provides the University with an annual financial appropriation in exchange for offering
Hon. W. Curtis Thomas and Hon. Harry Lewis, both Lincoln Board of Trustees members and state representatives, welcomed Allen and Dr. Mellissia Zanjani, CFRE, vice president of institutional advancement; Dr. Dorcas Colvin, senior advisor to the president; and Seitu Stephens, director of the new Office of Community & Government Relations. L
New Community & Government Relations Office The Office of Community & Government Relations, established this July, maintains effective political advocacy efforts at the local, state, and federal levels of government. Its goal is to create, sustain, and leverage community partnerships in order to maximize the greatest benefit for the Lincoln University community. In line with the University’s strategic plan, the Office of Community & Government Relations creates opportunities to expose students to the value of global engagement, social responsibility, and leadership development.
To learn more, contact Seitu Stephens, J.D. ’00, director of the Office of Community & Government Relations, at sstephens@lincoln. edu or 484-365-7131.
staff photo/Brian Bernas
photos courtesy of the Office of the Hon. John Lawrence
Capital Connections
Fall 2018
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