Mount Mercy’s Acting Provost and Vice President for Academic Affairs Melody Graham and Interim Assistant Provost/Dean of Adult Programs Tom Castle were invited to serve as guest panelists during Congressman Bruce Braley’s forum on the state of higher education in America.

Graham and Castle offered feedback and expertise during the forum, which was held at Coe College on January 26 and included students, faculty and higher education administrators from around the community.

Topics the panel discussed included:

• What are the greatest challenges facing U.S. colleges and universities? 
• How can student aid programs be improved? 
• Is Congress making wise investments in university research and campus infrastructure?  
• Is content in the classroom and research on campus keeping up with global demand for graduates with specific knowledge and skills? 

Braley, a Democrat representing Iowa’s First District, recently introduced legislation that would indefinitely keep the interest rate for federally subsidized student loans at the current level of 3.4 percent.

“It is reassuring to know that Congressman Braley appreciates the importance of higher education, and that he is eager to listen to those who dedicate their lives to the success of our students,” says Castle. “We were honored to be a part of that conversation as we focus on continuing our educational mission.”