The University of California Graduate and Professional Council (UCGPC) is dedicated to promoting the interests of graduate and professional students across the University of California system. With the support and guidance of the University of California Federal Government Relations team, the UCGPC has been actively involved in federal advocacy to ensure that the concerns and needs of graduate and professional students are heard and addressed at the national level.
Over the past year, the UCGPC has been at the forefront of advocating for policies that prioritize the accessibility, affordability, and success of graduate and professional education. Through ongoing engagement with policymakers and lawmakers in Washington, D.C., the UCGPC has sought to shape federal legislation and funding priorities in a way that reflects the unique challenges and opportunities faced by graduate and professional students.
Throughout these advocacy efforts, the UCGPC has worked closely with the University of California Federal Government Relations team, which serves as a vital resource and liaison between the UCGPC and federal policymakers. The team provides valuable expertise, guidance, and support, assisting the UCGPC in effectively conveying the perspectives and concerns of graduate and professional students to policymakers in Washington, D.C.
With the ongoing commitment of the UCGPC and the support of the University of California Federal Government Relations team, graduate and professional students within the University of California system can continue to have a strong voice in federal policy-making that positively impacts their education, research, and overall well-being.
The University of California Graduate and Professional Council (UCGPC) and the University of California Federal Government Relations (UC FGR) team are actively engaged in advocating for the UC system’s priorities in federal government relations.
Over the past year, the UC Federal Government Relations team shared with UCGPC various research, education, healthcare, and congressional matters. They collaborate with congressional representatives and committees to address research-related issues and advocate for research initiatives. Additionally, they promote inclusive education through advocacy efforts and comment letters on important acts and programs. Their involvement in healthcare advocacy includes commenting on funding and fee schedules to ensure accessible healthcare. They also actively participate in shaping federal policies through committee appointments, legislative actions, and engagement with the President’s budget.
The UCGPC provided updates on our advocacy plans, including events like DC Hill Days and Sacramento Advocacy Day. We also highlighted their priority areas, such as basic needs, civic engagement, and student loan forgiveness, emphasizing their dedication to supporting graduate and professional students.
The executive summary concludes by underscoring the proactive advocacy efforts of the UC system. Through their engagement with federal government representatives, the UCGPC and UC FGR are actively working to advance research, education, healthcare, and other priorities that are vital to the success of the UC community.
Read the Executive Summary here.
References:
[1] Federal Governmental Relations | UCOP
[2] UCGPC: Home
[3] DISCUSSION ITEM For Meeting of November 1
About the UCGPC Fee:
Together, we have an incredible opportunity to bring about transformative change in the UC system, in higher education, and in our nation as a whole. By opting in and contributing just $7 to the UCGPC fee, we can harness the collective power of students to advocate for the priorities that matter most to us.
Now, some may ask, why $7? It’s a small amount, but it holds significant symbolism. It represents our commitment to grassroots organizing and the power of our collective action. It signifies our dedication to creating a more equitable and accessible educational system, where every student can thrive regardless of their background or circumstances.
Let me be clear: this is not just about the UC system. It goes beyond the borders of our campuses and extends to the halls of Congress. By standing together, we can advance policies that will shape the future of education, healthcare, and the well-being of all communities.
But we cannot achieve this without your support. Your contribution is a powerful statement of your belief in a system that puts people first, invests in the potential of every individual, and recognizes education as a fundamental right, not a privilege reserved for the few.
We need a bold vision for our future, one that prioritizes the needs of the many over the interests of the few. And as graduate and professional students, we have the intellectual prowess and determination to bring about that vision. But it starts with us taking action, standing up, and lending our voices to the cause.
Thank you for your unwavering commitment to creating a better world through education. With your support, we can build a future that works for everyone.
Official Blog | UCGPC 
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