Lt. Governor Garcia Addresses Economic And Education Initiatives At Auraria Campus

DENVER, CO, February 13, 2011

Lt. Gov. Joe Garcia spent the evening of Jan. 25 at an Education Policy Forum at the Auraria Campus leading students and constituents in a discussion about state economic and education concerns. The forum was sponsored by The House District 5 Democrats and organized by House District 5 Finance Chairman Reeves Whalen, an attorney at Burg Simpson, and State Representative Crisanta Duran.

"Hopefully the discussion provided some much needed insight into how the new administration plans to approach the financial crisis in Colorado, the need for new jobs, and the direction of our schools," said Whalen. "I believe under Lt. Gov. Garcia's leadership, Colorado can grow as a national leader in education reform," he continued.

Lt. Gov. Garcia spoke to an audience of approximately 50 citizens who attended the Education Policy De-Briefing. A graduate of Harvard Law School, former attorney with Holme Roberts & Owen, and past President of Colorado State University at Pueblo, Garcia addressed concerns about the state budget and funding for education from students and constituents. He also acknowledged the need to rejuvenate the economy with an influx of jobs.

"Given our constitutional restrictions on raising money, we know the only quick way to do it is through more economic activity," said Garcia.

When gubernatorial candidate John Hickenlooper tapped then-CSU-Pueblo President Garcia to be his running mate in August 2010, many hailed the choice as "brilliant." Garcia was also recently selected by Governor Hickenlooper to head the Colorado Commission on Higher Education to better utilize Garcia's expertise in education.

The Education Policy Forum provided a substantial resource for students and constituents. Thanks to Lt. Gov. Joe Garcia and The House 5 District Democrats, attendees of the forum left with a significantly improved understanding of the new administration's strategy for higher education.