Students of Siena's Higher Education Opportunity Program believe more students of need should have access to a college degree - they took their message to the Capitol.
Lobby Days are held on every Tuesday of the legislative session. Elected state officials make themselves available to the public, and the public has an opportunity to advocate for what they want. What 12 Siena students want is greater access to a college education.
On February 11, the HEOP students lobbied to increase the income eligibility of the Tuition Assistance Program (TAP) from $80,000 to $110,000. The students also support increasing funding for opportunity programs, including HEOP, by 20 percent over last year's levels.
"It was a day of inspiration, advocacy, and appreciation for opportunity programs and TAP aid. Our students felt heard and expressed their passion and support for increasing aid towards programs that have made such a difference in their lives. It was truly a moving moment that I believe none of them will ever forget."
Yasmin Fisher '10, director of HEOP
The Siena students met with New York State Senator Neil Breslin (left).
"Being part of a student rally for student aid was a great opportunity. Seeing so many students from all over the state come and speak out for the same reasons was very powerful. Meeting with Senator Neil Breslin was my favorite part of the day. This is an experience I will always remember, and I would love to be apart of again."
Karina Rodriguez Marte '23
"Lobby Day for me wasn't just a day where I saw how grateful I am to be part of Siena's HEOP, but I realized how my gratefulness can be felt by thousands more if funding were increased for TAP and all other higher education support programs. I'm blessed to be here in HEOP, and now it's time others have that chance too."
Jonathan Gonzalez '23
“Lobby day was an unforgettable day where my voice finally mattered and impacted the future of many. I learned that it can be difficult to convince someone with wants and needs for millions of people. However, when it comes from the bottom of your heart, it may just impact their day. I will continue to attend Lobby Day until I see a positive change for the future."
Julene Ventura '23
