California State University officials visited Washington, D.C., this week to advocate for the university’s priorities. CSU Chancellor Charles B. Reed, trustees and university presidents met with federal lawmakers to discuss policy priorities including teacher preparation, college access and completion, workforce training, and applied research.
A key item on the agenda was fighting the proposed cuts to the Pell program. The CSU is the nation’s largest recipient of need-based Pell grants. If enacted, the cuts will mean nearly one-third of CSU students would likely be unable to attend college. More.
Higher Education Heightens Inspiration at Super Sunday
Throughout February, CSU officials including Chancellor Charles Reed, 20 university presidents, trustees and provosts took to the pulpit at dozens of African American churches throughout the state. Advocating the value of higher education, the speakers were joined by teams of CSU staff and volunteers to provide information about what it takes to go to college, from what classes to take in high school to how to apply for financial aid. More.
CSU Students Lend a Hand at Tax Time
This spring, thousands of families in need of tax help will turn to a CSU student.
Nearly every CSU campus has an IRS-certified Volunteer Income Tax Assistance (VITA) program. With the help of student volunteers, the programs provide low-income families with free e-filing services.
VITA benefits every party involved: The IRS gets volunteer help throughout the busy season, low-income families save money, and students get hands-on experience while serving their communities.
According to IRS spokesman Jesse Weller, most VITA sites are set up by university accounting, business and law departments as well as student clubs. The IRS retrains volunteers every year to keep them certified.
The students’ service pays off with valuable experience. More.
