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Suki Deen, University Relations Associate
31 Reads Way
New Castle, DE 19720
(302) 295-1164
FAX (302) 295-1137
suki.r.deen@wilmu.edu
Wilmington University Recognized by Delaware House of Representatives
May 9, 2008—Dover, DE. The Delaware House of Representatives, lead by House Majority Leader Representative Richard Cathcart, commemorated Wilmington University's transition from a college to a university Yesterday, May 8, 2008 at Legislative Hall in Dover,
The legislative presentation was made to Dr. Jack P. Varsalona, President of Wilmington University, in recognition of the strides the school has made, particularly in becoming a University in September 2007.
“I would like to take time to recognize an institution that has done some wonderful things for our community,” Stated House Majority Leader, Representative Richard Cathcart as he welcomed President Dr. Jack P. Varsalona to the podium.
“Back in 1968 when I used to live in New Castle, there was a transformation of an old motel into a school we now know as Wilmington University,” continued Representative Cathcart, “It started off with 194 students and provided people like myself, and others, with an opportunity to earn an education in addition to the commitments of having a full time job and family.”
Representative Cathcart earned his Bachelor of Science in Business Administration from Wilmington University (then Wilmington College) in 1977 after returning from service in the Vietnam War.
“The University now has over 11,500 students,” said Representative Cathcart, “the growth of this University has been phenomenal, especially under the leadership of Dr. Varsalona.” He went on to congratulate the institution on their recent change in designation from Wilmington College to Wilmington University.
Wilmington College officially became a university in September 2007 after being approved by the Board of Trustees and the Middles States Association of Colleges and Schools. The name change helped to better reflect the emphasis on baccalaureate and higher degree programs that distinguish Wilmington University from colleges in our community, as well as effectively communicate the full commitment and mission of the University.
“Thank you, thank you. This means so much to our University,” said Dr. Jack Varsalona, as the Delaware House of Representatives presented him with a tribute. “We have 24,000 alumni of which 23,000 are Delawareans,” continued Dr. Varsalona, “And a reason for our growth is due in part to the wisdom of the people in this room.”
Dr. Varsalona thanked the Delaware House of Representatives saying, “It is thanks to Delaware laws, and the hearts behind them that Wilmington University has come so far. So on behalf of the University, our students, our alumni, our faculty, and our staff, I would like to thank you for creating the environment that made this little institution grow to where it is today.”