Rep. James McGovern Recognized by America’s Independent Colleges and Universities
U.S. Representative James McGovern (D-MA), a member of the Congressional Independent Colleges Caucus (CICC), was recognized today for his leadership and support of independent colleges and universities by Barbara K. Mistick, D.B.A., president of the National Association of Independent Colleges and Universities (NAICU).
“Rep. James McGovern represents the central portion of Massachusetts which is home to eight private, nonprofit colleges and universities that play a vital role in the region’s economy,” Misti
ck said. “He has been a longtime advocate of private higher education, including supporting doubling the maximum Pell Grant award, a critical federal program for helping low-income students to fund their college education. For his support for federal student aid programs, the colleges and universities in his district, and the entire private, nonprofit higher education sector NAICU is proud to honor Rep. McGovern with this recognition.”
A thirteen-term member of the U.S. House of Representatives from Worcester, MA, Rep. McGovern was presented with a framed replica of his CICC Member Spotlight by Mistick during a meeting on Capitol Hill. He serves as the Ranking Member on the House Committee on Rules and as a member of the Committee on Agriculture.
“As someone who represents a district rich with exceptional colleges and universities, and as a proud graduate of American University, I understand the transformative power of higher education. These institutions don’t just educate—they inspire innovation, cultivate leadership, and anchor our communities. I am proud to advocate for them as a member of the Congressional Independent Colleges Caucus,” said Congressman McGovern. “As the brother of two sisters who are dedicated teachers—I’ve seen the lifechanging power of education from every angle. Supporting our independent colleges means supporting a future where everyone, regardless of their background, has a chance to thrive. I’m honored to stand with these institutions and their incredible students as they continue to shape our nation’s future.”
“At American University, I learned how to think critically and fight for what I believe in. Our colleges and universities are incubators of discussion and debate. They are breeding grounds for intellectual growth—that’s what American University was to me and I’m forever grateful for it,” added Congressman McGovern.
His district, encompassing Worcester, Leominster, Amherst, Shrewsbury, and Northampton, is home to: Amherst College, Anna Maria College, Assumption University, Clark University, College of the Holy Cross, Hampshire College, Smith College and Worcester Polytechnic Institute. Massachusetts is home to more than 70 independent colleges and universities enrolling 334,273 students.
Mary Lou Retelle, president of Anna Maria College, praised Rep. McGovern’s support for the private college campuses in Massachusetts.
“Rep. McGovern is a steadfast advocate for Anna Maria College, championing educational initiatives that benefit our students and faculty.” Retelle said. “His effectiveness as a legislator is evident in his ability to identify the needs of his constituents and secure vital funding to enhance academic and economic opportunities within our district. We are most pleased to collaborate with Congressman McGovern in ways that align with our mission of public service and community involvement.”
Smith College President Sarah Willie-LeBreton, Ph.D. said: “Rep. McGovern is a champion for higher education and is responsive to our needs. I am deeply grateful for his dedication to advocating on our behalf in Washington.”
Amherst College President Michael A. Elliott, Ph.D., noted Rep. McGovern’s work in support of federal student aid: “Rep. McGovern has a deep commitment to higher education and support of the federal Pell Grant program and student loan affordability initiatives in particular. His efforts have supported generations of Amherst students who have been able to graduate from college with very little or no debt. His leadership in this area and his advocacy of programs involving literacy, wounded veterans, school lunches, and economic revitalization have been game-changing for our region and nation.”
The Congressional Independent Colleges Caucus (CICC), launched in February 2017, offers Members of Congress an opportunity to both celebrate and advance awareness of the nation’s independent colleges and universities, and learn about the challenges and issues these institutions face. The Caucus, led by co-chairs Rep. Derek Kilmer (D-WA) and Rep. David Joyce (R-OH), includes 74 members in the 118th Congress.