The New York Public Interest Research Group (NYPIRG) would like to welcome you back to an exciting, and as is tradition, snowy start to the Spring Semester. As many of you probably remember, NYPIRG is one of the leading student advocacy groups here on campus. NYPIRG is at the forefront of countless battles to protect consumer, environmental, voter, and student rights.

For 40 years, NYPIRG has been carrying out its unique dual mission all across New York to create social change that protects individuals from special interest groups, and to create an outlet for students looking to learn or improve their grassroots campaign skills. We provide students with the skills and knowledge necessary to enact real, positive change on campus, in the community and across the entire state.

With our state legislature in session, this semester NYPIRG is working hard to make sure lawmakers in Albany hear from students on issues that they care about. NYPIRG will be working with students and engaging them in campaigns that protect New York from the dangers of hydrofracking, end discrimination in consumer issues like car insurance rates, decide how New York will create its energy for the next several decades and perhaps most importantly to college students, fight for accessible and affordable education.

This semester, we are working to make certain that the Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) is updated to meet the needs of the modern-day college student. The state’s need-based financial aid program turns 40 years old this year, and is decidedly out of date. In addition to updating TAP, NYPIRG is focusing on passing the New York State DREAM Act, which would support thousands of undocumented students as they pursue the dream of a higher education.

As part of this campaign, NYPIRG is traveling to Albany on Wednesday, Feb. 26 for a Higher Education Action Day. Students will have the opportunity to rally at the capital, and meet with elected officials to discuss ways to make higher education more affordable and accessible.

We’re building a student movement here in Syracuse, and we invite you to join us. Come to our Student Action Meeting on Thursday, Feb. 20 at 6 p.m. in Schine, Panasci Lounge, 304ABC to become a part of the exciting plans for the semester. By getting involved, you will help ensure that the New York State we all love is on the correct path.

 

NYPIRG at SU/ESF, Project Coordinator Julia White

Published on February 17, 2014 at 3:59 am