Official Blog | UCGPC

During the May 2023 UC Board of Regents meeting, students from various universities came forward to voice their concerns and advocate for critical issues. The Student Advocates to the Regents (StARs) played an active role in these discussions, highlighting student priorities and engaging in vital conversations. Noor Nakhaei, a UCLA Ph.D. student in Computer Science, spoke about the need to address housing issues, reduce Non-Resident Supplemental Tuition for Ph.D. students, and secure additional funding from the state to mitigate the impact of recent raises on TAs and Ph.D. admissions. Tori Porter, a UCR Ph.D. candidate in Education, focused on advocating for inclusive environments for all students, with a particular emphasis on the experiences of Black transgender students. Tori addressed the impact of policing on the safety and well-being of this community and called for action against discrimination and violence.

The University of California Graduate and Professional Council (UCGPC) also played a crucial role in the meeting. Hayden Schill, the UCGPC President, urged the Regents to engage with the Photovoice Gallery hosted by Dr. Evelyn Vazquez of UCR School of Medicine. The gallery showcased the experiences of marginalized graduate students from low-income and first-generation backgrounds. The UCGPC’s involvement demonstrated its commitment to addressing essential student priorities and promoting equity and inclusion within the UC system.

Overall, the May 2023 UC Board of Regents meeting was a powerful platform for UC students to advocate for pressing issues. The active participation of StARs and the UCGPC initiated meaningful discussions and promoted positive change within the UC system. The meeting highlighted the collective power of student advocacy and the dedication of individuals working towards a more equitable and inclusive university community.

UC students can make their voices heard and shape the university’s future by applying to be a Student Advocate to the Regents (StAR) for the upcoming July meeting at UCSF. As a StAR, you can advocate for critical issues and promote positive change. Access the application here and apply by July 10, 2023: https://docs.google.com/forms/d/e/1FAIpQLSdhRyyuh6o6OLObrCSG5ucQI1JXwtuNdyW9kQXhWOSIG_xc2g/viewform. 
As a graduate or professional student, there are various ways for you to participate in decision-making spaces. You can become a StAR, serve as a student observer in committees, or make a public comment. Additionally, you can apply to be a graduate representative at UC Systemwide Committees. Learn more about these opportunities at https://www.ucgpc501c3.org/stars.