Texas Speaker of the House and State Representative visit ACU, Abilene

Texas Speaker Tom Craddick and state Rep. Susan King visited Abilene Thursday to tour ACU and Abilene, give an economic update, and listen to local community leaders, said Dr. Royce Money, ACU president.

After a quick tour of ACU, the state leaders received an overview of the progress of Genesis Networks Solutions (GNS), a software testing facility formed by ACU with the cooperation of many local organizations and higher education institutions.

"We came to find out what we could do in Austin to help economic growth and jobs," said Craddick at an afternoon press conference. "We visited about higher education funding and looked at new technology with Genesis. The state wants to help you (Abilene) grow in any way we can."

Craddick and King were given a tour of the city, including the site of a new Pharmacy School being built here. The two ended their tour at GNS, where they met with local community leaders and held a press conference.

When asked about possible changes in the Texas Tuition Equalization Grant, Craddick assured Money he does not agree with the governor’s plan to reduce funds for TEG and will not support that plan.

"We have enjoyed our tour of Abilene," Craddick said. "I was very impressed with ACU, the technology programs, the pharmacy program and other things going on in Abilene."

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