I found Council Member Johnson-Lee's comments regarding the elimination of General College at the University of Minnesota offensive. Give me a break! She calls the desire to eliminate the General College elitist and racist. She clearly does not know what she is talking about, hasn't taken the time to talk to someone who does, and does not understand the University System in Minnesota.
EVERYONE has access to the University of Minnesota. Minnesota residents pay significantly less for that access than anyone. However, the standards are increasing as the University is trying to attract the best students from and to Minnesota. If a student does not meet the minimum standards for the U of M, the state of Minnesota also subsidizes the State college system where entrance is easier. Should a student improve their grades after a year, they can try to transfer to the U of M. If a student does not make the standard for the State College system, there are the community colleges. Anyone can transfer to the U of M at any point! The faculty, administration and staff are trying to enhance a world class institution in Minnesota in a competitive world. 70% of the people who are attracted to this institution from out of the state stay in Minnesota! The U of M provides jobs, much funding from outside of the state, and educates many of our best students. Improving the U of M and using its resources in the best ways are in the best interest of Minnesotans of all races and economic classes. CM Johnson-Lees comments suggesting the decision to drop General College is racist or elitist are naive at best. Sincerely, John Erwin Associate Professor U of M Vice President Minneapolis Park and Recreation Board REMINDERS: 1. Be civil! Please read the NEW RULES at http://www.e-democracy.org/rules. If you think a member is in violation, contact the list manager at [EMAIL PROTECTED] before continuing it on the list. 2. Don't feed the troll! Ignore obvious flame-bait. For state and national discussions see: http://e-democracy.org/discuss.html For external forums, see: http://e-democracy.org/mninteract ________________________________ Minneapolis Issues Forum - A Civil City-focused Civic Discussion - Mn E-Democracy Post messages to: mailto:[email protected] Subscribe, Un-subscribe, etc. at: http://e-democracy.org/mpls
