HARTFORD, Conn. (WTIC) - At a forum on Tuesday, Connecticut State Colleges and Universities President Mark E. Ojakian defended his Students First plan to merge the state's twelve community colleges.
Ojakian argued that Students First would save on administrative costs and improve academic services. He also said he believes the plan will provide the best service for students enrolled at the colleges.
Some state lawmakers expressed skepticism. At the forum, Senator Mae Flexer cited past failures of the Board of Regents to justify her doubt.
"Given the failed efforts that we have seen from the Board of Regents over and over and over again, it's difficult to have confidence in the notion that this plan is going to now be a national model for success."
State lawmakers are considering a bill that would require General Assembly approval before community college campuses could be merged.