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For Immediate Release
April 2, 2003

White Seeks to Expand Universities Participating in Center for Rural PA

Harrisburg – State Sen. Mary Jo White (R-21) is introducing legislation to add the regional campuses of the University of Pittsburgh to a research program benefiting rural Pennsylvania.

White said Senate Bill 564 would make faculty members at University of Pittsburgh regional campuses eligible for grants through the Center for Rural Pennsylvania. Currently, the grants are limited to Penn State University and State System of Higher Education schools, including Slippery Rock University and Clarion University.

White is vice chair of the Center's board of directors.

"For years, the Center for Rural Pennsylvania has linked institutions of higher education with rural communities in a partnership to research challenges unique to rural Pennsylvania and craft solutions," said White.  "My legislation recognizes the contributions that experts at the University of Pittsburgh regional campuses could make to this effort."

The Center for Rural Pennsylvania was created as part of the 1987 Rural Pennsylvania Revitalization Act, which also established rural education partnerships and adult literacy programs. 

The principle duty of the Center for Rural Pennsylvania is to administer grants to conduct research on matters related to rural conditions. It facilitates and coordinates basic and applied research and service components for faculty, staff and students of participating schools.

"The Center for Rural Pennsylvania provides assistance to address concerns that arise in rural communities, by maximizing resources, research and strategies to come up with workable solutions," said White.