Student leaders from across the State University of New York system traveled to Albany on Wednesday to meet with state lawmakers and press for the SUNY Student Assembly’s budget priorities. Representatives from all 64 campuses held meetings throughout the day with dozens of elected officials.
The group is calling for a $1 million investment in temperature-controlled food pantry lockers, $3 million for SUNY’s Higher Education in Prison program, and increased direct state tax support to strengthen academic programs, maintain essential campus services, and continue the resident undergraduate tuition freeze. Students also urged expanded capital funding for critical maintenance projects, stronger affordability programs such as TAP, the Excelsior Scholarship, and SUNY Reconnect, and additional funding for the Educational Opportunity Program.
Student leaders said many SUNY students are facing growing financial pressures, including food insecurity, rising living costs, and limited access to campus resources. They noted that non-traditional students, working students, parents, and incarcerated learners often face added challenges.
During their meetings, students shared personal stories to show how additional funding would help improve access and outcomes during college and beyond.
“Today’s advocacy reflects the collective voice of SUNY students who are calling for investment in their futures and in the strength of New York’s public higher education system,” said Luca O. Rallis, SUNY Student Assembly President and SUNY Trustee.
“By coming together at the State Capitol, students are demonstrating that when New York invests in SUNY, it is investing in academic success, workforce readiness, and the future of students across the state,” Rallis added.
