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Often called the “founding mother of ������Ƶ,” Elizabeth Barstow Alton led the campaign to locate a college in South Jersey in the mid-1960s. But, as strong and persistent a force as she was, she could not have done it alone. Alton built a coalition of partners ranging from members of the media, religious leaders, businesspeople, clubs, organizations, and schoolchildren who wrote letters and signed petitions. Even powerful state and local politicians were smart enough to get on board when the Elizabeth Alton train roared through.

The fight to found a university in South Jersey was not easy. In 1965, the State Board of Higher Education asked a committee to make recommendations for a new college, but almost everyone expected it to be in North Jersey. Through Alton’s campaign, however, which galvanized massive public support, the backing of the Press of Atlantic City, and the influence of powerful state Senator Frank “Hap” Farley, two colleges were approved - one in the north and one in the south.

Alton later wrote: “ is a clear example that average people can achieve goals they seek through careful planning, preparation and organization, coupled with the kind of persistence that refuses to accept defeat.”

A member - and later chair - of the first Board of Trustees, Alton continued to play an important role, voting on the name of the College, determining the location for it, and shaping the educational programs alongside the College’s presidents. As ������Ƶ enters its next 50 years, Alton remains an inspiration and role model for the future.