cIcu | Commission on Independent Colleges and Universities

cIcu president Abe Lackman states, “The Governor clearly recognizes that investing in higher education access and New York’s student population is of great importance during times of significant economic stress. For that reason, proposals to cut our state’s existing student and institutional aid programs should be reconsidered. In the months ahead, I look forward to working with the Executive and members of the Legislature to ensure adequate funding for New York’s students and families and to support the implementation of NY HELPs.”

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Please take a moment to send e-mail messages to New York State legislators to oppose cuts to essential student aid programs and to support the passage of the NYHELPS low-cost loan program. Forward this link: http://capwiz.com/cicu/home/ to other supporters you know. Tell policymakers why access to higher education matters to you.

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Click "Keep Reading" to sign up for the New York Student Aid Alliance. You'll get an "action alert" via e-mail when your involvement can make a critical difference.

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Click the "keep reading" link below to become a fan of cIcu's new Facebook page, New York Student Aid Alliance. The page's main focus is to encourage individuals to get active and contact their elected officials to promote higher education in New York. Furthermore, the page is a source of useful updates and information regarding New York higher education.

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Chairman of the Pace University Board of Trustees, Aniello Bianco expresses his concern for the future of New York's economy. Highlighted is the idea that a lack of investment in higher education today will lead to economic problems in the future.

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Former President Bill Clinton, Vice President-elect Joe Biden, and Senator Edward M. Kennedy were among those paying tribute today at the funeral of former Senator Claiborne Pell of Rhode Island. Pell, who died Jan. 1 at age 90, was a former chairman of the Senate Foreign Relations Committee and also championed student aid, with grants bearing his name. (Kennedy's remarks, as delivered in Newport, R.I., are included in post.)

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Oregon lawmakers can do their part by funding student financial aid near the level recommended by the governor. As for Congress, the most direct way to help students is through federal grants and loans. Congress can make a world of difference by further improving funding for Pell Grants to meet the rapidly growing need. Congress also can work with President-elect Barack Obama to make sure the Treasury helps keep credit flowing for low-interest student loans. (Regional emphasis)

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Thirty-eight states currently provide their college students with some form of affordable student loan program. New York is the only state in the Northeast without this low-cost capital alternative for families. Implementation will help encourage New Yorkers to stay in New York and give them the choice to attend any college or university in the state. (Regional emphasis)

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