N.J. Governor Wants to Merge Thomas Edison Into Rutgers

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Office of the Governor
Office of Constituent Relations
Post Office Box 001
Trenton, New Jersey 08625-0001

GOVERNOR CHRIS CHRISTIE ELECTRONIC RESPONSE

July 1, 2010

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Dear XXXXX:

I am writing to follow up on your correspondence expressing opposition to the proposed merger between Thomas Edison State College and Rutgers University.

Given these tough economic times, my Administration had some very tough decisions to make in this year's Budget. However, because higher education is so important to you, me and so many others in New Jersey, my Administration worked with the Legislature to make the best decisions for the Budget. That is why I am pleased to inform you that the proposed merger of Thomas Edison and Rutgers was not included in the Budget that I signed on June 29th. Thomas Edison State College will remain independent.

Despite our difficult fiscal environment, I am always looking for ways to improve our State's system of higher education. That's why I signed an Executive Order creating a Higher Education Task Force, chaired by former Governor Tom Kean, whose purpose is to conduct a complete and holistic review of the higher education system in New Jersey. The recommendations of the Task Force will look to promote efficiencies in the governing structures of institutions, create public-private partnerships to better utilize resources, seek capital investments and seek to redress affordability and tuition concerns. I am hopeful that when the Task Force's work is completed, I will be able to work with the Legislature to strengthen New Jersey's higher education system. I am hopeful these reforms will allow institutions, including Thomas Edison, to provide an even better educational experience than exists now.

Best wishes and have a great summer.

Sincerely,

Chris Christie
Governor