Stony Brook University juniors Bath-Seva Sholomson, Peter Milien and graduate student Pierre Albert traveled to the state capital to represent the University at SUNY Day 2013 on February 11. The three students participated in a full day of legislative meetings with staff and elected officials. They discussed the importance of the Tuition Assistance Program (TAP), their appreciation of the NY SUNY 2020 initiative and campus facilities.
While TAP funding is not threatened in the current state budget cycle, the students asked for continued vigilance in maintaining the aid for state university students. They expressed their gratitude for the NY SUNY 2020 initiative, now in its second year. Some of the students have received additional scholarships and experienced smaller class sizes and more course sections offered as a result of the initiative.
The students also discussed the new Recreation Center and how it has encouraged wellness on campus. Finally, the students told lawmakers what it was like to be sheltered on campus during Hurricane Sandy and its aftermath, and the opportunities the superstorm presented for them to help fellow students affected by the storm and surrounding communities who were severely impacted.
In addition to meetings with elected officials, the students also met SUNY Chancellor Nancy Zimpher and SUNY Board of Trustees Chair H. Carl McCall. They toured the State Capitol building and heard the debate and vote for Jenny Rivera’s appointment to the New York State Court of Appeals. The day ended with a reception that included legislators, alumni and friends of SUNY.
SUNY Day is an annual event in Albany that brings representatives from the 64-campus public higher education system to the state capital to raise awareness among lawmakers about what is happening on campus and to discuss higher education policy.
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