Dear Members and Friends of the CUNY Community:
We need you to visit www.supportcuny.org today to focus on the federal budget and its impact on your education and that of your families and friends.
Full funding of the federal Pell grant program and other financial aid for college students is jeopardized by the provisions of the recently passed budget bill, known as HR1, by the U.S. House of Representatives.
CUNY Chancellor Matthew Goldstein is working with public higher education system leaders throughout the nation to oppose the bill, which includes reducing the maximum Pell grant award by $845 annually, eliminating the federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant program, and decreasing support for college readiness provided by Gear-Up.
Please visit www.supportcuny.org now, use sample letters or write your own, and e-mail U.S. senators and congress members from New York to oppose the proposed reductions.
Our nation’s economy and ability to thrive in global competition depends on a well-educated workforce. The Pell grant program is the key building block for access to college. Recipients repay the investment made in their education many times over through increased earnings and taxes over the course of their lifetime. Negotiations are taking place this week in Washington, D.C. so please communicate today.
Thank you for your support.
