National Association of Scholars Endorses Cirino's Senate Bill 1

COLUMBUS - The prestigious National Association of Scholars and the Civics Alliance is enthusiastically endorsing Senate Bill 1, sponsored by State Senator Jerry C. Cirino (R-Kirtland).

"I am elated that the National Association of Scholars and the Civics Alliance once again stands with us on promoting intellectual freedom on campus," Cirino said. "We share the same mission: to encourage civil and rigorous debate, and protect freedom of speech for everyone at our institutions of higher education. This endorsement shows we are moving swiftly to encourage excellence here in Ohio."

The association stated, "SB 1 will do an extraordinary amount to depoliticize Ohio’s public higher education system, strengthen intellectual diversity, and restore its accountability to Ohio policymakers and citizens." 

The organization previously endorsed Senate Bill 83 from last General Assembly, the precursor to Senate Bill 1. The N.A.S. also praised Senator Cirino for previous legislation establishing academic civic centers at five public universities. "Ohioans can now look at the success of Ohio SB 117 as another reason to look favorably on SB 1. . . . now Ohio’s centers are up and running, joining their colleagues doing similar work around the country. Ohio’s universities are settling down to help these new establishments do the best possible work."

"As the association notes, we were successful in bringing civic centers to some of our colleges, and those have been welcomed by many as they open their doors," said the senator. "That success is foundational for our students' futures, especially as we advocate for them with Senate Bill 1."

The National Association of Scholars aims to reform higher education by promoting the "standards of a liberal arts education that fosters intellectual freedom, searches for the truth, and promotes virtuous citizenship."