Sample Letters to TESU

Thomas Edison State University
111 West State Street
Trenton, N.J. 08608

Dear President Hancock & Board of Trustees,

I was surprised to learn that Thomas Edison (and the State) was planning to steal from Trenton by selling off “Reception to Washington”, thus ensuring the painting’s removal from the city. This intolerable action against the residents and visitors of Trenton show an utter disregard for anyone but the university itself. Is this what being a good neighbor means to you? 

Just because the administration is unable to properly balance a budget, does not give it the right to sell a piece of Trenton’s history in order to do so. If the board is truly interested in being a friend of the city and its residents, you will find a more appropriate and sustainable way of running your business, and not at the expense of those who call Trenton home.

Sincerely,

Thomas Edison State University
111 West State Street
Trenton, N.J. 08608

Dear Board of Trustees,

It was startling to find out that Thomas Edison (and the State) was planning to sell off N.C. Wyeth’s “Reception to Washington” painting, thus depriving the local history community of an extremely important piece of the Trenton story. Anyone with a passing knowledge of Trenton is aware of the event depicted, especially since so much has been researched and written about it. In fact, a short walk over to the city’s library will reveal an actual piece of the Triumphal Arch, as well as the original letter that George Washington wrote to the Ladies of Trenton that same day. These items are held in the public trust, and it would be unconscionable if the city ever sold off its history to balance a budget, unlike how a state-funded college now is so quick to do.  

The history community does not look kindly on what Thomas Edison and its administration are planning to do at the expense of Trenton and those who appreciate its rich history. Be assured that we have a long memory and will not forget this shameful act if the board insists on going forward with the painting’s sale. 

Sincerely,

Thomas Edison State University
111 West State Street
Trenton, N.J. 08608

Dear President Hancock,

As a Thomas Edison alum, I am disappointed to see the university cast in such a negative light in the press in recent weeks. As bad as learning of a multi-million dollar budget deficit is, it is even worse to find out that the administration is so short-sighted as to think that the solution is to sell off a piece of artwork.

Such a budget gap does not happen overnight, and to believe that a quick fix such as selling off one painting will solve future problems is irresponsible of the board. You have been tasked with keeping the university operating long into the future, not just for the next year, and it is imperative that other long-term solutions be researched.

Sincerely,