KALAMAZOO – State Representative Robert Jones (D-Kalamazoo) today praised the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Higher Education for meeting on Monday at Western Michigan University (WMU). The event was open to the public, and Jones joined area residents in attendance to hear about issues that are impacting higher education in Michigan and express their concerns.
"I'm very pleased that the Higher Education Subcommittee decided to hold this event in Kalamazoo," Jones said. "WMU is a big part of our community, and our residents were able to hear how lawmakers are working to improve our institutions of higher education, which will ultimately benefit Kalamazoo, the 60th District and all of Michigan."
The higher education subcommittee's meeting took place this morning at WMU's Richmond Center for Visual Arts. The meeting was one of a number of hearings that the subcommittee will hold at colleges and universities across the state throughout the year.
Creating good-paying jobs and strengthening Michigan's economy has always been a top priority for Jones. One of the best ways to attract new and expanding businesses to Michigan is with a highly educated workforce.
"Unfortunately, skyrocketing college costs are putting higher education out of reach for many of our residents," Jones said. "We must make sure that every resident has the opportunity to attend college so they can prepare themselves for success in the 21st century global economy. A well-educated workforce will help attract businesses and industries looking to expand to Michigan, create jobs for our residents and get our economy back on track."