As A More Affordable And Accessible Option
For Philadelphians Seeking A College Education
November 2007
To all government officials, community leaders and citizens of Philadelphia:
Philadelphia has always been known as home to many fine educational institutions of higher learning. Because of this rich educational tradition, no state-owned college or university was ever located within the city. The mistake policymakers have made is equating this abundance of fine institutions with educational opportunities for the average Philadelphia seeking a four-year college education. Nothing could be more misleading.
The city’s nationally renowned universities – the University of Pennsylvania, Drexel, La Salle, Saint Joseph’s, Temple and Villanova (just outside the city boundary) – are all an important part of the city’s educational and cultural landscape. However, they play only a small role in providing a college education for Philadelphia’s many high school graduates from low- and moderate-income families. High tuition and high admissions standards combine to exclude many Philadelphians who need affordable college education.
It is time to begin a conversation about establishing a university of the State System of Higher Education in Philadelphia. This informational packet is intended to help start that conversation.
Sincerely,
Mark B. Cohen
State Representative, 202nd Legislative District
And Democratic Caucus Chairman
Pennsylvania House of Representatives
