On October 8, the College of Staten Island (CSI) kicked off an exciting event hosted by Kirby Sikes, marking the Fall 2024 launch of the campus chapter of the New York Public Interest Research Group (NYPIRG). CSI is home to one of 20 NYPIRG chapters based across colleges and universities throughout New York State. As a student-driven organization, NYPIRG’s State Board of Directors consists entirely of students, including three from CSI, who play a critical role in establishing the organization’s direction and advocacy efforts.

The kickoff event wasn’t just informative, it was also a great opportunity to connect over pizza! A delicious spread was provided, creating a fun, social atmosphere for students to mingle and talk about the exciting projects NYPIRG leads on campus and across the state. To add a layer of engagement, students participated in trivia games, testing their knowledge on topics related to public interest causes, including NPC (New York Public Campaign) issues, to further connect with NYPIRG’s advocacy work.

CSI’s NYPIRG chapter has made impressive strides in advocating for environmental justice, lobbying in Albany and City Hall for stronger protections for children against lead poisoning, and organizing coalitions to combat proposed CUNY budget cuts and tuition hikes. One of the most significant achievements of NYPIRG students has been their role in securing funding to clean up more than 800 toxic waste sites across New York, including nine here on Staten Island. Their commitment to creating real change is inspiring, as these students actively work to protect their local and statewide communities.

The kickoff event showcased passionate student activists from several significant campaigns, showcasing the effectiveness of student-led change. Longtime supporter of better public transportation Daniel Bayer is working with the Straphangers Campaign to reform the MTA, which documents deficient transportation systems, promotes lower student rates, and pushes for better services for all New Yorkers. Leading the push for the Higher Education Campaign are Caitlin Vazquez and Haroon Ali, who want a free and fully financed CUNY system to guarantee that higher education stays accessible to everyone. Nathalia Lampkin advocates for environmental justice and measures that save the environment. Jackson Mushnick concentrates on public health via his efforts for universal healthcare and the elimination of medical debt. Completing the group is Thomas Spinner, who collaborates with the Democracy Campaign to inspire students to cast ballots and engage in the political process. These students together embody NYPIRG’s broad commitment to public advocacy and the strength of group action.

Beyond environmental justice, NYPIRG students conduct surveys and hold press conferences to keep the public informed about consumer issues, including scams and rip-offs. The chapter also participates in the NYPIRG Straphangers Campaign. Through these initiatives, NYPIRG students are changing their communities and learning a lot at the same time.

NYPIRG provides several avenues for students to become active in the pursuit of social change. Students can hear about ongoing initiatives and ways to become involved during General Interest/Student Action Meetings that NYPIRG hosts each semester. The CSI chapter also provides internship opportunities, both on and off campus, allowing students to develop real-world skills while advocating for important causes. Furthermore, every semester NYPIRG students can attend the Statewide Student Action Conference—an exciting chance to meet other student leaders from across New York, share ideas, and have fun while learning about activism.

NYPIRG has a long tradition of fostering student leadership, and CSI’s chapter encourages all interested students to get involved. NYPIRG gives students the means to take on leadership roles and serve as public interest advocates, whether through smaller-scale local lobbying or bigger state-level campaigns.

For CSI students who wish to take action, visit the Campus Center office of NYPIRG to find out more!

By Nathalia Lampkin