Contact information: 413/775-1420
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Contact: Liz Carroll
Phone: 413/775-1420
E-mail: carroll@gcc.mass.edu

Media contact: Liz Carroll
Marketing & Publications
413/775-1420 | carroll@gcc.mass.edu

Release date: March 14, 2005

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Legislator profile: Representative Stephen Kulik

Anticipating better economic times for GCC

For Representative Stephen Kulik (First Franklin District), GCC represents the hope for self-improvement and better opportunities in life for his constituents. "It opens doors,” says Kulik. "I think GCC is often the first point of contact with higher education for many people. I've had many people tell me what a positive experience it is for them.”

Unfortunately, Kulik goes on to say, "Public higher education in Massachusetts is too often taken for granted, and it is not as highly valued on Beacon Hill as it should be. When Governor Romney a couple of years ago proposed his reorganization plan that would merge GCC with Holyoke Community College, I believe it was his ultimate vision to close GCC. I was just so impressed with the way the trustees, the business community and people in all walks of life pulled together to save GCC.”

It was an episode that was probably unique, believes Kulik. "It showed how valuable an asset GCC is to the greater Franklin County community. The college has deep roots, and people don't want to lose it. They don't want to see its quality compromised.”

It was a fight worth fighting, Kulik believes, because the momentum established during that period puts GCC in a stronger position as we enter better budget times. "I'm hopeful that I and the rest of the members of the legislative delegation can call on people that helped before to advocate for higher appropriation in terms of the budget for GCC. This college really deserves it, based on the quality of its programs, the people it serves, and the unique place that it holds in the community.”

"Higher education has really suffered a lot during our recent budget crisis for the past four years. I believe we're beginning to turn the corner on that and hopefully rebuild the partnership that should exist between state government and our state and community college system.”

Kulik is working to put GCC in the strongest possible position as the state pulls out of its economic slump. "GCC offers people the tools for better lives, and that, I think, is one of the most valuable investments we can make with public money. That's how I ‘spin' GCC and its role in the community. So I look forward to helping GCC achieve all that it can. It's a priority of mine and I think better days are ahead.”