On Jan. 25, the final report of the UMDNJ Advisory Committee recommended, and the governor endorsed, a proposal to create a broader, expanded research university in southern New Jersey that integrates Rutgers–Camden into Rowan University.
Any proposal for dramatic change introduces elements of uncertainty and concern. This is not an approved plan. It is an extraordinarily complex proposal, which will require thorough vetting and, by law, the approval of Rutgers’ two governing boards.
Classes and other campus activities are all functioning normally. Rutgers–Camden’s world-class faculty and academic programs remain in place. Many students and their families have expressed concern regarding the status of the campus, rightfully noting their desire to earn a Rutgers degree. This is one of the many important academic and administrative issues that would need to be addressed if the proposal moves forward. Reorganizations such as this might include a transition period to accommodate students already pursuing a degree or admitted for the coming academic year.
Rutgers–Camden alumni, faculty, students, staff, families, and friends have overwhelmingly voiced their strong opposition to any plan that deprives our campus of the great value of the Rutgers name. We are continuing to engage the Rutgers Boards of Governors and Trustees, as well as New Jersey’s governmental leaders, to explain to them the numerous problems presented by this proposal, and will continue to work to protect the integrity of our campus and the Rutgers–Camden community.
Rutgers–Camden anticipates, and welcomes, a robust public discussion about the role of the campus in southern New Jersey. We agree that expanding resources for higher education in southern New Jersey is an important goal and that Rutgers–Camden must play a crucial role in that growth. We do not believe that the proposal to merge Rutgers–Camden into Rowan achieves that outcome.
It is important to note that the report offers many elements worthy of serious deliberation and consideration. Expanded capacity for research in southern New Jersey would be a clear economic driver for our region. We have identified numerous opportunities for meaningful partnership with Rowan University and its Cooper Medical School that would strengthen all of southern New Jersey’s institutions and increase the educational opportunities for the residents of our region. We look forward to discussing those approaches.
Some may wish to voice their opinions on the proposal – in the affirmative or the negative – to other audiences, and may wonder who they should contact. Those inclined to do so might wish to contact the Office of the President and the Boards of Governors and Trustees at Rutgers, as well as the governor and the appropriate state legislators for their hometowns in New Jersey. >>Information about voicing opinions.