Sept. 27, 2011

MATC Proud to Welcome Dr. Brenda Dann-Messier to ECAM, HIRE Center

When I welcomed Dr. Brenda Dann-Messier, U. S. Assistant Secretary for Vocational and Adult Education to Milwaukee on Sept. 8, her first words were "Call me Brenda."

Her visit was part of Secretary of Education Arne Duncan's "Education and the Economy" bus tour of several Midwest states. While in Milwaukee, she met with MATC students, instructors, business leaders and representatives of community-based organizations that partner with MATC. Her personal (and personable) approach was disarming and welcoming, but I never doubted for a moment she was absorbing every word said.

At the Oak Creek Campus' Center for Energy Conservation and Advanced Manufacturing (ECAM), students shared that everyone committed to technical education must work to overcome the negative perception manufacturing carries with it. They also candidly told us that we need to do a better job promoting MATC to local high school students. Business leaders spoke about the importance of collaborating with MATC to ensure our students are receiving the education and training for skills employers are looking for right now.

From ECAM, we headed to Milwaukee's HIRE Center, where dislocated workers have access to re-employment and retraining services. Some students shared their stories of being laid off multiple times; others shared how they came to the United States to seek a better life. They eloquently stated that they want to work. Despite the frustration of this recession, they remain undaunted. Our community partners like Journey House, the Workforce Investment Board, the Urban League, and others said unequivocally that their unique willingness to work together is the key to decades of success.

Dr. Dann-Messier was complimentary of our programs, relationships, and certainly of our people. I was struck by the copious notes she took throughout the day and the amazing recall she had for each individual's name. I am confident that our stories of challenges and accomplishments will be shared in Washington, D.C.

The day was an opportunity to showcase many of the positive attributes of MATC – cutting-edge technology education and training, committed business partners, dedicated community allies, innovative teachers, and most importantly, our amazing students.

I was reminded throughout the day of the true reason I have spent my entire career in higher education: the students for whom we are often the last, best hope. I am proud of our students who were forthright about what we do well and how we can improve. Their candor was impressive, especially when they talked about the tough times in their lives. I know Dr. Dann-Messier was equally impressed with their honesty and dedication. I am proud these students call MATC home.

Photos of Dr. Dann-Messier's visits can be viewed at http://marketing.matc.edu/web/photos/090811_assistant_secretary_of_education_visit/index.html