Donna Shalala - CICC Member Spotlight

Coming from my most recent tenure as president of the University of Miami (UM), I was thinking a lot about the issues affecting independent colleges and the students that attend them. Not only is the Caucus bipartisan and bicameral, it also encourages members from all backgrounds to lead on issues impacting thousands of constituents in their districts. In our rapidly evolving and globalized world, independent colleges produce critical thinkers who possess the confidence and flexibility to adapt and learn new skills. I joined the Congressional Independent Colleges Caucus to help the group grow and serve as a vocal advocate for these institutions in Congress.

There are several private, nonprofit colleges and universities in Florida’s 27^th Congressional District that serve thousands of students from all over South Florida. The University of Miami employs more than 13,000 employees and has contributed over $2.5 billion dollars to our local and regional economy. The impact and contributions extend to many sectors and touch countless lives. Each year, thousands of patients choose the world class UM Health System for specialized medical treatment. With new, cutting-edge technology, top ranked professionals, and first-rate facilities, UM contributes to the health and wellness of the people in our district and the greater South Florida community. The school also engages its academic resources with surrounding communities to enrich civic and community life.

In order for these great independent institutions to succeed, it is critical they understand the complexities and needs of a diverse South Florida community. UM is currently working with various faculty and staff to come up with innovative ideas to integrate mixed reality into their classes. This technology allows students to merge digital content with their physical environment across many disciplines. Students are encouraged to present their ideas and generate original content in multiple languages – something incredibly important to our largely Spanish-speaking district. These programs have the potential to increase English language retention for thousands of struggling children in public schools.

Last month, I was proud to co-introduce the College Affordability Act alongside Chairman Bobby Scott (D-VA) and my fellow colleagues on the Education and Labor Committee. This landmark HEA reauthorization bill provides every single American citizen with the opportunity to receive a quality, affordable college education that will lead to a rewarding career and won’t burden them with debt. I’m prioritizing protecting students from predatory institutions that only care about profits over academic success and student well-being . Too often, it is low-income and minority students who most need our help and yet are least supported, left in debt with no job prospects. My experience as a university president has taught me that student success ought to be the center of any academic institution’s goals.