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PEP Sept 2016
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Public Employee Press


DC 37 at 42nd AFSCME CONVENTION
PEOPLE HAVE THE POWER
AFSCME NEVER QUIT

FREE COLLEGE BENEFIT

AT the 42nd AFSCME International convention in Las Vegas, Nev., July 18-22, the American Federation of State, County and Municipal Employees, DC 37's parent union, announced a free-tuition benefit for members, their families and retirees toward an associate's degree online from Eastern Gateway Community College.

"Having a college degree is more important than ever for getting ahead these days," said AFSCME President Lee Saunders. "A degree can be your pathway to new opportunities, greater responsibility, a better job and higher wages."

The free college benefit brings a higher education degree within reach for tens of thousands of members and their families. It is AFSCME's answer to the challenges of rising college costs and increased workplace demands for skilled and tech-savvy workers.

"With the cost of tuition at an all-time high, many of our members are unable to pursue a college degree," said Alma Roper, executive vice president of Clerical Administrative Employees Local 1549 and chair of the DC 37 Education Committee. "Members struggle to pay back student loans, or cannot afford to send their children to college."

"This is a great opportunity to realize the dream of earning a college degree while you work and without worrying about paying next semester's tuition or the anxiety of paying back burdensome student loans," Roper said.

AFSCME and Eastern Gateway Community College developed the free and fl exible associate's degree program. The nationwide program was launched after the college ran a pilot program in Ohio.

"I was happy to learn that AFSCME is making this available to everyone," said Cynthia Stenton, a Local 768 member. "What this means is we can get more education and better serve our communities."

"Our members work hard for their community, and that work can often go unsung," Saunders said. "The free college benefit is one more way AFSCME helps members secure the opportunities and the respect they deserve."

For more information visit: www. freecollege.afscme.org.

— DSW

 
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