WASHINGTON – U.S. Senator Claire McCaskill today met with University of Missouri (MU) Chancellor R. Bowen Loftin to discuss university affairs, and expanding higher education opportunities.

Loftin came to MU in December of last year, after seeing great success and growth as president of Texas A&M University.

“Bowen is a proven academic leader and someone who commands a great deal of respect,” McCaskill said. “I know that he will work hard to hold my alma mater to an incredibly high standard, and make sure that Missouri’s students have access to the best possible educational opportunities, so they can compete for the jobs of tomorrow.”

McCaskill previously fought for an expansion of federal student loans, and recently led the charge to prevent a drastic increase in student loan interest rates.

McCaskill also previously helped pass the College Cost Reduction and Access Act, which made college more affordable for Missouri families by boosting Pell Grants, cutting interest rates on college loans, and providing loan forgiveness for students who spend ten years in public service, as well as opening up TEACH Grants for undergraduates who commit to teaching in high-need school districts.