Coppin State president takes exception to Rascovar’s put down

by Mortimer Neufville

President of Coppin State University

I take extreme exception to Barry Rascovar’s depiction of Coppin State University and the quality of the education our students receive. (The last few paragraphs in Caret comes home, Dec. 18)

With more than three decades of experience in Maryland higher education, I bear witness to the commitment of the University System of Maryland (USM) to offer access to quality and affordable education to all of its citizens. Each member institution has become a unique academic entity that draws students from within and beyond its borders. Students come to our campuses to be educated, enlightened and transformed. Coppin State University students are no different.

Contrary to Mr. Rasovar’s accusation, I have found our students possess an extra sense of resolve and hardiness.  Our graduates teach English in Japan, conduct research at the National Institutes of Health (NIH) and direct safety at the world’s busiest airport.  We are hugely proud of our students and the faculty that prepare them.

Coppin State University is a 114-year-old institution, dedicated to its mission of providing education and opportunity to all. I will extend the obligatory offer for Mr. Rascovar to join our students, meet our faculty or visit our campus.

I only ask that he leave these baseless insensitive comments at home.  They do very little in moving our young people forward.