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In recent months, the higher education landscape has undergone significant and rapid change. Through it all, AICCU remains steadfast in supporting our member institutions, their missions, and the diverse students they serve. We are a resource to Congressional and state legislative offices during a time of great debate and uncertainty among colleges and universities.
We are laser-focused on advocacy, whether it's navigating new regulations and federal guidance or responding to state budget and policy proposals that directly impact college affordability, access, and student success. A core part of this advocacy is to ensure that lawmakers understand the dramatic impacts these policies—from the loss of federal grant funding to the challenges faced by undocumented and international students—will have on the campus community and the state at large.
AICCU’s advocacy is also grounded in advancing key priorities that expand college access and promote student success. We are proud to sponsor AB 402 (Patel), which would restore the Cal Grant to its highest level and ensure that nontraditional students can use their transfer entitlement at independent, nonprofit colleges. Additionally, more AICCU institutions are now being integrated into ASSIST.org, improving transfer pathways for California community college students and making the process of academic advising more seamless.
At the federal level, we continue to advocate for the protection of critical student aid programs. We have urged Congress to preserve the Pell Grant, prevent cuts to Federal Work-Study and SEOG, and ensure that aid, including federal loan programs, remains accessible to those who need it most. According to our latest Federal Impact Report, the average net tuition for students attending independent nonprofit colleges has decreased, while institutional grant aid has increased by 30%—a testament to our sector’s ongoing commitment to affordability and access.
AICCU institutions are at the forefront of workforce development and are essential to educating California’s future leaders, innovators, and professionals. As anchor institutions, our members contribute directly to the economic and social well-being of their communities.
That is why it is vital for California’s independent higher education sector to have a seat at the policy table, especially in statewide conversations on intersegmental coordination and long-term strategy. Strong partnerships at both the state and federal level are essential to ensuring that all students, regardless of where they begin their journey, have a pathway to success.
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