Smith Sends Message to AACC Community

In a message to her school community that appeared on the Anne Arundel Community College website today, AACC President Martha Smith commended supporters who voiced their opposition to the County Council budget cuts for the next fiscal year.

She prefaced by saying that though the news wasn't what they had hoped, it wasn't as bad as it could have been.  The County Council cut support to AACC's budget by $5.2 million, from $33.8 million that was requested to $28.6 million.

In her message, Smith said: "I want everyone to understand that only the college’s Board of Trustees can determine the impact to the college. We are not a county agency and therefore, the County Council cannot dictate cuts to pay, furlough dates, changes to programs or the like. Those decisions are solely within the purview of the Board of Trustees."

Smith went on to say that her staff will work with county leadership to continue to work on additional restoration of funding. 

In the meantime, she thanked all who had taken the time to voice their support for full AACC funding from the county.

"I also want to add my sincere thanks to everyone who wrote the Council, called them, spoke on our behalf and showed up for the budget vote today. Your support made the difference," said Smith. "You know, too, from the bottom of my heart how much I appreciate your hard work and dedication. We’re in this together."