Former Calvert politico named to state panel

Frazer will serve on higher education body in 5-year term

Friday, July 25, 2008

‘‘I’m a strong proponent of higher education and believe that Maryland has one of the most solid university systems in the country and look forward to the opportunity to not only learn, but to contribute to the commission,” said Frazer (D), who served two nonconsecutive terms as Calvert County commissioner prior to being mayor of North Beach from 1998 to 2006.

The Annapolis-based commission, which meets seven times a year, oversees college access and affordability, monitors curricula and diversity programs and administers the state’s financial aid programs.

As the region’s only representative on the commission, Frazer said he wants to be an advocate for the College of Southern Maryland and other higher education institutions in the area. Ensuring access to postsecondary education opportunities is another high priority for Frazer.

‘‘I think there’s a constant challenge to make sure that there’s access to deserving students,” he said. ‘‘That to me is paramount and to make sure that the universities and community college systems are able to meet their present and future needs financially because Maryland has a system that it has every right to be proud of. So I feel it’s important to maintain what we consider to be the very excellent university and community colleges in the state, while making sure they are accessible to our residents.”

State Appointments Secretary Jeanne D. Hitchcock called Frazer and asked him if he was interested in serving on the commission. After reviewing MHEC’s mission, Frazer said he accepted the nomination. The state Senate confirmed Frazer’s appointment during this year’s legislative session.

‘‘I look forward to meeting and working with Dr. Frazer and the other commissioners to continue to strengthen the higher education system in Maryland,” said MHEC Secretary James E Lyons Sr.

As a dentist, Frazer said he recognizes the value of higher education in today’s competitive job market and hopes serving on the commission will be a learning experience for him as well.