Senator Frederick E. Berry (D-Peabody) received an award today for his "Outstanding Support of Developmental Programs by a Public Servant" from the Learning Assistance Association of New England (LAANE), which is an organization of academic support personnel from colleges and universities throughout New England. LAANE's 200 members are dedicated to assisting college students to succeed by providing a variety of tutoring programs such as developmental courses in writing and mathematics, ESL courses, and programs to assist those with physical and learning disabilities.

"Senator Berry has been a strong supporter of higher education in the Commonwealth and has particularly been helpful in assisting students with disabilities to gain access to a post-secondary education, "said Dr. Ron Weisenberger, Vice-President and Chair of the Award Committee at LAANE. "LAANE's members are appreciative of such support and wish to recognize him for his efforts over the years."

Senator Berry was honored with the award because of his sponsorship of a provision that was passed in the Fiscal Year 2000 budget that provides tuition waivers at Massachusetts' community colleges to students who meet the eligibility requirements of the Massachusetts Rehabilitation Commission or the Massachusetts Commission for the Blind.

"I am honored to receive this award today by such an incredible group of educators who are dedicated to helping students with disabilities succeed at the higher education level," said Senator Berry. "In order for these students to succeed in the classroom, however, I felt we needed to provide them first with the opportunity to attend college. That is why it was so important for me to advocate for this law that allows students with disabilities to attend community college tuition free."