Annually, leaders in the DRI and the SSA gather in Washington D.C. to discuss the ongoing research and perhaps adjust their focus of study taking place at the University of Illinois.  This past week, the DRI Annual Symposium took place.  Joining a panel of disability research experts from across the country, U.S. Rep. Tim Johnson (IL-15) took time from his schedule to express his appreciation for this opportunity at the U of I and his ongoing support for this project and the maintenance of the Social Security Administration.

“The Disability Research Institute makes an important contribution to Illinois, and to the entire nation,” said Johnson.  “I am extremely proud that this innovative, one-of-a-kind facility is housed in my District.  As Congressman, I will continue to support the DRI and its mission to make Social Security a viable and effective administration.  I intend to work hard to keep it in place, intact and available to the millions of Americans who depend on it everyday.”

University of Illinois Dean and DRI Scientific Director Tanya Gallagher noted of Johnson’s visit to the symposium, “We deeply appreciate the support we’ve received from our elected leaders, especially Congressman Johnson.  They’re continued efforts to protect Social Security are vitally important to the success of the DRI.”

Rep. Johnson, as a first-term Congressman from Urbana, has made higher education his priority in Washington.  He is committed to expanding the national prominence of Illinois universities, and supporting the DRI is one example.