Linda Balzotti

Concerned Youth

Posted on April 20, 2010 - Permalink
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Brockton Mayor Linda Balzotti visited campus April 9 and fielded some insightful questions posed by Brockton High School mentees who are enrolled in the college's FAM for Change program. Many of the questions demonstrated a deep concern for the future of their city.

Ms. Balzotti, who was elected to office last November, began by delivering a message to the students about persevering through high school and continuing on to study at the college.

"You will get no finer education than at Bridgewater," she said.

When question time rolled around, one mentee seemed concerned with her current high school education. She asked Ms. Balzotti about how the city is dealing with potential budget cuts for Brockton schools.

"Right now, we're facing some tough decisions," said Ms. Balzotti, "but we will do everything we can to make sure you get the education you need."

In order to get through today's tough economic times, Ms. Balzotti stressed the importance of Brockton residents working together as a community. She emphasized that same cooperation when fielding a question from a mentee about the city's effort in reducing its high crime rate.

Ms. Balzotti said she is working hard with the Brockton's police force to reduce the crime rate, but said citizens should assist in the effort by speaking out against illegal behavior.

"It will be a help from everyone, but I'm certainly willing to do my part," she said.

The event was held in the Campus Center.

FAM for Change was developed by President Dana Mohler-Faria and pairs BSC mentors with BHS freshmen to help the latter group stay in school and excel in their studies. The Brockton mentees who successfully complete the program, graduate high school and meet the requirements for entrance into BSC will get to attend the college free of charge. The program is currently in its second academic year.

Before being elected mayor, Ms. Balzotti worked for several years at the college and served as a Brockton city counselor for more than a decade. (Story and photo by Rob Matheson, Office of Institutional Communications)