The Association of Independent Colleges and Universities of Pennsylvania (AICUP) awarded Congressman Charlie Dent, R-15th, the Benjamin Franklin Medal for Distinguished Achievement on behalf of higher education at its annual meeting in Hershey March 26.

The Benjamin Franklin Medal, named for one of the nation’s and Pennsylvania’s earliest and most recognized leaders, is reserved for individuals who have made an extraordinary contribution to the ongoing vitality and effectiveness of Pennsylvania’s colleges and universities.

This year, AICUP honored Dent, who has been a strong voice for higher education.

During his time spent as a Pennsylvania representative and then senator, Dent was a champion for the Lehigh Valley private colleges and universities. He was also an advocate for student aid through his service on the board of the Pennsylvania Higher Education Assistance Agency (PHEAA).

He understood the value of a quality postsecondary education and supported helping students afford their education by advocating for funding for the PHEAA Student Grants and Institutional Assistance Grants.

When Dent went to Washington, he continued to promote funding for higher education while serving on the House Appropriations Committee and as a member of the Independent Colleges Congressional Caucus.

He understands the importance of educational opportunities for lower-income Americans and continues to be their champion in Congress.

As a co-chair of the “Tuesday Group,” a group of centrist Republican members of Congress, Dent has also been an important, leading voice for bipartisan compromise and governing during a period of increasing partisanship.

“Congressman Dent has played a major role in shaping policy that supports independent higher education in Pennsylvania and the rest of the nation,” AICUP President Don Francis said. “It was an honor to present the Benjamin Franklin Medal for the Congressman’s service on behalf of independent higher education.”

For more information, visit aicup.org, or follow the organization on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram.