Letter: Alice Pope Represents Values of Recent Graduates

Improved governance has been a major priority for alumni who have elected and re-elected reformers to the Penn State Board of Trustees over the past 5 years. My recent experience as a student (Class of 2011) confirms my support for Alice Pope, who deserves a second term because of her ongoing contributions to pressing issues facing the university.

As a recent graduate, I comprehend the difficulties of rising student tuition rates and the burdensome accompanying student loans.  Because Alice is a university professor, she works directly with students and understands the challenges they experience. While Penn State guarantees 12 of 32 trustees elected as agricultural and business and industry representatives, I believe it is important to re-elect our only educational representative.

As a recent graduate, I understand the need to adapt to a dynamic educational landscape with agile and transparent leadership. Alice has been a consistent advocate for sound decision-making processes and public accountability on the board.

As a recent graduate, I yearn for a day when the public can think of Penn State without referencing the scandal of 2011. Alice is the trustee who gives me hope.

Alice Pope deserves our vote for re-election to the Board of Trustees.

Evan Smith