served on that body succeeded in focusing attention on the problem of
providing adequate facilities for educating future generations of Mary-
landers....

We must continue to search for solutions. Our most immediate difficult
problem is to solve the dilemma created by a growing shortage of teachers.
We have entered a phase of history where the schoolroom has become our
first line of defense against a ruthless system which submerges human
dignity to the dictates of the state. If we are to survive, to compete, to
preserve our way of life, future generations must be instilled, not only
with knowledge, but with devotion for the ideals that truly represent
America. Inducements to the youth of our State to enter the teaching
profession have been made, higher salaries are being offered, free tuition
programs for prospective teachers recently have been instituted at the
University of Maryland, Morgan State College and Maryland State
College. These inducements will provide some relief but what we are
continuing to search for is a broad program, dynamic enough to solve
this problem in the shortest time possible but sufficiently flexible so re-
visions can be made to meet changing needs.

Finally, let me take this opportunity to alert you to the fact that a
political campaign will shortly be underway in Maryland and that issues
affecting you as teachers and as citizens will be sharply discussed. I ask
you to weigh your decisions carefully as independent free-thinking
citizens because, believe me, as a veteran campaigner I can assure you
that efforts will be made to woo the support of your organization.

I want to thank you for giving me this opportunity to address you
and for permitting me to discuss the problems facing us as frankly as
I have. All of us recognize that the position of men and women working
in the public field is a difficult one. The effort is great and the returns
are far more rewarding the privacy of one's heart than they are in any
other way. I want to express my appreciation to you, not only as Chief
Executive of the State but as an individual, for your toil, your sacrifices,
and your advances in the difficult field of educating our youth to become
better and more useful citizens for themselves and for the State.

ADDRESS, WASHINGTON COLLEGE
CHESTERTOWN

October 21, 1961

It always a delight to me to visit this ancient and revered seat of
learning on my native Eastern Shore, and I am particularly grateful for