A group of approximately 70 Gustavus Adolphus College students and staff, including President Jack R. Ohle, took a bus to St. Paul on Thursday, March 4 to advocate for need-based student financial aid through the Minnesota State Grant Program.
“Our advocacy is crucial this year,” said Day at the Capitol co-chair Matt Olson ’10. “More than 84,000 Minnesota college students receive this grant, and the program is facing a $42 million deficit for the biennium.”
This academic year, 727 Gustavus students received state grants with an average award amount of $3,742.
Those who participated in the Day at the Capitol event had a chance to speak with key lawmakers about the importance of the Minnesota State Grant Program, visit with Gustavus alumni who work in the legislature, and tour the Capitol building.
Olson and Co-Student Senate President Derek Holm ’10 were invited by Gustavus alumna and Speaker of the House Margaret Anderson-Kelliher to signal the beginning of the House session by pounding the gavel.
Day at the Capitol is produced by the Minnesota Private College Council (MPCC) and allows students to learn how to become effective advocates while urging state legislators to support Minnesota students.
Click here to see photos from the Gustavus Day at the Capitol event.
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