Hopkinton, NH - Today, Representative Annie Kuster (NH-02) held a virtual roundtable with New Hampshire college and university presidents to discuss campus testing strategies for COVID-19 and plans for reopening institutions for the upcoming fall semester. Kuster voted in favor of the HEROES Act, which passed the House nearly three months ago and includes $27 billion in aid for colleges and universities, as well as $4 billion for states to distribute to K-12 schools and higher education institutions. 

“As students return to campuses across New Hampshire and around the country, much uncertainty remains about what this semester will look like and how students can learn while staying safe during the pandemic,” said Kuster. “I’m grateful for the opportunity to hear from leaders at our state’s higher education institutions about the steps they are taking to protect students, faculty, and staff as they work to provide students with the best education possible in these difficult circumstances. While Congress has provided COVID-19 relief funding for educational institutions, we must do more. I look forward to sharing these valuable insights with my colleagues as we continue working to support schools and our nation’s academic sector during this public health emergency.” 

"The higher education community in New Hampshire appreciates Congresswoman Kuster’s support as we plan to re-open our campuses amidst a pandemic," said Dr. Michele Perkins, President of New England College and Chairperson of the NH College and University Council.  "We remain committed to providing quality education that drives NH’s economy, advances technology, and prepares students for life after COVID-19."

During the discussion, Kuster heard from:

• Debby Scire, President and CEO of NH College and University Council (NHCUC)
• Joseph Favazza, President of St. Anselm College
• Dr. Michele Perkins, President of New England College and NHCUC Chairperson
• Dr. Kim Mooney, President of Franklin Pierce University
• Sister Paula Marie Buley, IHM, President of Rivier University
• Dr. Susan Huard, Interim Chancellor for Community College System of New Hampshire
• Susan Stuebner, President and Professor of Social Sciences and Education at Colby-Sawyer College
• Todd Leach, Ph.D., Chancellor of the University System of New Hampshire 
• Donald Birx, Ph.D., President of Plymouth State University
• James Dean, President of the University of New Hampshire 
• Dr. Shawn Fitzgerald, Provost and CEO, Antioch University 

In April, Kuster unveiled her “Roadmap to Recovery” agenda, which details the necessity for robust plans for testing, tracing, and isolation as part of reopening and our economic recovery. A number of provisions from the agenda were included in the HEROES Act. 

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