Stockton to House Legislators as Part of New Program

Republican District 9 representative Chris Connors will be spending some more time in Galloway Township, particularly on the campus of the

The state senator from Galloway's is set to participate in the new Legislator-in-Residence Program, the William J. Hughes Center for Public Policy of Stockton College announced on Friday, Sept. 30.

Connors, who faces re-election this November, will spend two or three days on campus this spring, where he will join in class discussions with faculty members and students.

Democartic Assemblyman Louis D. Greenwald will be the first legislator to participate in the program, this fall. Greenwald represents District 6.

Legislators will also speak with faculty and students in small groups to address experiences in the public policy process.

The Carnegie Foundation for the Advancement of Teaching selected Stockton to host the program because of its wide-ranging partnerships.

“The Legislator-in-Residence Program is a new way to increase the civic engagement of the Stockton community and to help promote understanding of the issues critical to the well-being of our state,” Stockton President Dr. Herman J. Saatkamp Jr. said.

“I am honored to participate as Stockton's first ever Legislator-in-Residence," Greenwald said. “Stockton is one of the institutional gems of our state, providing high-quality education and a focus on students that is truly laudable. Many of New Jersey's students are concerned that they won't be able to find jobs when they graduate. That is why I look forward to speaking with them and the Stockton community about why Trenton must focus on reinvigorating New Jersey's middle class, including creating jobs and opportunities for our graduates in the workforce."

“I am looking forward to working with staff and students at my alma mater by discussing my experiences in public service both at the local and state level,” said Connors, a Stockton graduate. “This is a pivotal time in our state’s history. New Jersey is currently facing several critical issues which include how to jumpstart its economy and control government spending. The Legislator-in-Residence Program will offer me the opportunity to engage students on these issues as well as offer insight into the legislative process and constituent service work which represent the bulk of a State Representative’s day-to-day responsibilities."

“By expanding engagement opportunities for students, we hope to enhance their academic work with real life insights,” Hughes Center Direcotr Daniel J. Douglas said.

Stockton is still awaiting word on whether it will be selected as one of four sites to host a The announcement will be made later this fall.