Molloy University proudly participated in the Commission on Independent Colleges and Universities (CICU) Annual Advocacy Day on February 11, 2025, sending its largest-ever group of students to Albany to meet with legislators. Nine students eagerly advocated for increased funding for New York State Opportunity Programs, ensuring that more students across the state have access to the financial support they need to succeed in higher education.
Led by Neal Lewis, Director of the Molloy Office for Community and Government Affairs, the student delegation engaged in meaningful discussions with lawmakers about critical funding issues affecting colleges and universities. This unique experiential learning opportunity allowed students to witness firsthand how public policy decisions are made and to play an active role in shaping the future of higher education in New York State.
Molloy’s participation in Advocacy Day was a collaborative effort, supported by the Office of Community and Government Affairs, The Division of Student Affairs, Molloy Student Government, and CSTEP at Molloy University. Students made compelling cases for several key initiatives, including:
- Restoring Funding for Opportunity Programs – With the Governor’s proposed budget including a 3% reduction in funding, students advocated for not only the restoration of these funds but also a 20% increase in funding for HEOP, STEP/CSTEP, LPP, and other opportunity programs that serve underrepresented students.
- Expanding the Opportunity Promise Scholarship – Students urged lawmakers to extend the Opportunity Promise Scholarship (which currently covers free community college) to include students in the independent sector. This expansion would have a $7 million fiscal impact this year, benefiting many students at Molloy and beyond.
- Supporting the Expansion of Part-Time and Graduate TAP – Ensuring that part-time and graduate students have access to Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) funding would provide essential financial relief for those balancing work, family responsibilities, and education.
- Restoring Last Year’s Cuts to Bundy Aid – Students emphasized the importance of rejecting proposed language that would exclude some institutions based on arbitrary financial metrics. Bundy Aid plays a vital role in supporting students, and its full funding is essential to maintaining access and affordability to a college education.
Throughout the day, students engaged in productive conversations with legislators, sharing their personal experiences and the impact that opportunity programs have had on their academic careers. Their advocacy demonstrated the power of student voices in shaping higher education policy. Students spoke passionately about how financial aid and academic support services have enabled them to pursue their goals, overcome obstacles, and achieve success in college. Many legislators responded positively to these stories, acknowledging the importance of continued investment in these programs to support future generations of students.
Beyond their policy discussions, students also gained valuable networking experience and a deeper appreciation for civic engagement. They left Albany with a greater sense of empowerment, understanding that their voices matter in the legislative process. The experience reinforced the importance of advocacy and leadership, inspiring students to stay involved in policy discussions that affect higher education access and affordability.
Isabella Schaefer, Adolescent Education - Biology ‘26, and Molloy Student Government President, shared that "visiting the State Capitol and advocating for change was an unforgettable experience. Hearing personal stories about the impact of education was truly inspiring. Standing up for what’s right is something I’ll always strive to do, and I hope to encourage others to do the same.”
"Advocacy isn’t just for institutions, it’s for individuals too. Our trip to Albany reinforced the power of our voices. Engaging with legislators firsthand showed me that real change is possible when we stand behind a cause we’re passionate about," said Jasmine Lainez, Speech-Language Pathology and Audiology ’26, and D.E.I. Co-Chair, Molloy Student Government.
Reflecting on the trip, Neal Lewis expressed, “The experience of walking the halls of the Capitol and speaking directly with elected officials and legislative aides is a great way to get past the theory of how government functions and learn what goes into getting policy enacted into law. I was very impressed with how quickly our students learned their way around and demonstrated confidence in explaining the issues and speaking up for greater access and financial support for higher education.”
Molloy University is proud of the dedication and leadership displayed by its students, faculty, and staff in advocating for these essential programs. Their commitment to educational access and equity reinforces the university’s mission to empower students and foster meaningful change within the community.