California State Student Association Plenary and California Higher Education Student Summit Recap | March 2025

The California State Student Association (CSSA) held a meeting this past weekend on March 8, covering a wide range of issues affecting students across the CSU system. Here's a breakdown of what CSSA is and what topics were discussed.

CSSA is the governing body representing all undergraduate and graduate students enrolled in the California State University (CSU) system. It serves as a platform for students to advocate for their interests and concerns on a system-wide level. CSSA works closely with the CSU Chancellor's Office and the Board of Trustees to ensure that student voices are heard and considered in decision-making processes.

Following CSSA, the California Higher Education Student Summit (CHESS) was held on March 9-10. CHESS is an annual conference hosted by CSSA that empowers students to become change agents in advocating for an accessible, affordable, and quality system of public higher education for all Californians.

During a two-day conference held in the state capital, California State University (CSU) students participate in various training sessions on state governance, higher education and public policy, and conduct lobby visits in preparation for Advocacy Day at the Capitol. In addition, students are provided the unique opportunity to collaborate and network with state legislators and student leaders from all of CSU’s 23 campuses.

This past weekend, a delegation of six Associated Students Government Affairs elected student representatives from our campus journeyed to Sacramento, California to participate in CHESS. Representing our student body were AS President Chris Sullivan, Commissioner of Legislative Affairs Madison Kelley, Commissioner of Social Justice and Equity Aishwarya Gowda, Vice President of Business and Finance Rishika Tyagi, and Director of Academic Affairs Dev Kachiwala.

CSSA Plenary | March 2025

Executive Committee:

The California State Student Association (CSSA) commenced its activities with the Executive Committee meeting, held in the Capitol Room of the Harper Alumni Center at Sacramento State University. This initial gathering served as the official kickoff for CSSA's engagement. The agenda encompassed standard procedural items, including a Call to Order, Roll Call, and the approval of the Consent Agenda, which included the agenda for a future meeting in March 2025 and the meeting minutes from November 2024. The meeting then provided an opportunity for public comment, allowing individuals to address the committee on matters pertaining to higher education. Officer reports from President Iese Esera and Executive Director Joe Nino followed, setting the stage for the meeting's primary focus: the selection of the 2024-2025 Shaun R. Lumachi Advocate of the Year. This significant action item, allocated 25 minutes for deliberation, underscored CSSA's commitment to recognizing student advocacy and was conducted in accordance with the organization's Awards and Recognition Policy, before the meeting's formal adjournment. 

Legislative Affairs Committee:

Commissioner Madison Kelley actively participated in the CSSA Legislative Affairs Committee meeting, where key legislative items were addressed. The committee focused on several action items, including SB 323 (Perez), concerning the California Dream Act application through the Student Aid Commission, for which a co-sponsor position was considered. Additionally, they deliberated on AB 95 (Fong), which addresses the Coordinating Commission for Education in California, and AB 850 (Pacheco), focusing on Institutional Debt Transparency; both bills were considered for a support position. For each bill, the committee reviewed the bill language and analysis, ensuring informed decisions. Public comments, both verbal and written, were welcomed, with online submissions facilitated through the CSSA website, allowing for broader community input on these critical legislative matters. 

Finance Committee:

President Chris Sullivan, as a member of the finance committee, participated in a crucial segment of the CSSA focusing on financial transparency and planning. The committee engaged in two key information items. First, Chair Coari and Assistant Director Martinez provided a detailed breakdown of the estimated Operations and Public Relations (PR) expenses for the Fiscal Year 2025-26 CSSA budget, allowing members to gain insight into how funds would be allocated. This 20-minute discussion aimed to ensure fiscal responsibility and strategic resource management. Following this, the committee reviewed the March 2025 Financial Statement, presented by the same individuals. This 10-minute segment provided an overview of the "Actuals Statement" as of March 3rd, 2025, allowing the committee to assess the organization's current financial standing and ensure alignment with budgetary expectations. These discussions were integral to CSSA's financial oversight and strategic planning. 

Internal Affairs Committee:

The Internal Affairs Committee, addressed critical matters related to organizational policy and governance. First, they tackled unfinished business by considering and acting on the approval of the Agenda Item Submission Policy. This 10-minute action item focused on formalizing the process for submitting agenda items, ensuring transparency and efficiency in future meetings. Following this, the committee transitioned to new business, where they introduced a significant information item: a draft CSSA constitutional amendment concerning Nondiscrimination and Title IX Compliance. Chair Carrillo and Member Andrade-Dominguez presented Article VI, outlining the proposed changes. This 15-minute discussion allowed the committee to delve into the important aspects of ensuring the CSSA constitution aligns with current nondiscrimination and Title IX standards, demonstrating the committee's commitment to fostering an inclusive and equitable environment within the organization.

Systemwide Affairs Committee:

President Chris Sullivan, as a member of the Systemwide Affairs Committee, participated in a meeting that addressed crucial issues affecting the CSU system. The session began with reports from staff and officers, specifically Tara Al-Rehani, Vice President of Systemwide Affairs, and Genesis Jara, Assistant Director of Systemwide Affairs, providing updates on their respective areas. The committee then moved into unfinished business, dedicating 30 minutes to a discussion led by Selena Hernandez, San Jose State University’s Campus Survivor Advocate, regarding the role of survivor advocates within the CSU, fostering a vital dialogue among members. Following this, the committee took action on a significant resolution, presented by Member Andrade-Dominguez, aimed at establishing a system-wide CSU Undocumented Student Advisory Council framework for comprehensive support. This involved reviewing both the first and final drafts of the resolution, demonstrating the committee's commitment to supporting undocumented students. Finally, Ariana Lacson, San Jose State University AS President, presented an information item regarding a resolution in support of trans students' rights, providing background information and setting the stage for potential future discussions. These agenda items highlight the committee's focus on addressing student needs and advocating for systemic change within the CSU. 

Board of Directors:

The final Board of Directors meeting was a comprehensive session addressing key organizational and legislative matters. The meeting commenced with the approval of the Consent Agenda, which included the agenda for a future meeting, minutes from a previous session, and several significant action items. Notably, the Board considered and approved a resolution to establish a system-wide CSU Undocumented Student Advisory Council framework, demonstrating a commitment to supporting undocumented students. The board also reviewed and took positions on several key bills: SB 323 (Perez) concerning the California Dream Act application, AB 95 (Fong) regarding the Coordinating Commission for Education in California, and AB 850 (Pacheco) focusing on Institutional Debt Transparency. 

Following this, liaison reports were provided by representatives from the Academic Senate, the CSU Office of the Chancellor, and the CSU Board of Trustees, providing valuable insights into system-wide activities. The meeting then transitioned to public comment, allowing community members to address the board. Reports from CSSA officers, including President Iese Esera, Chair Karen Carrillo, Vice President of Finance Tyler Coari, and Vice President of Systemwide Affairs Tara Al-Rehani, followed. 

The meeting culminated in the selection of recipients for several prestigious awards: the Bob Linscheid Trustee of the Year, Administrator of the Year, Robert C. Maxson President of the Year, and Faculty Excellence Award. These selections, guided by the Awards and Recognition Policy, highlighted the board's commitment to recognizing outstanding contributions to the CSU system. This final meeting underscored the Board's dedication to legislative advocacy, student support, and the recognition of excellence within the CSU community.

CHESS | March 2025

On March 9th at CHESS, attendees had the opportunity to participate in a variety of informative workshops designed to enhance their understanding of higher education advocacy. 

Morning Sessions:

• The Cal State Student Association (CSSA): This session, led by Iese Esera and Joe Nino, provided insights into CSSA's role and how students can contribute to enacting change within the CSU system.
• The Chancellor's Office: Nathan Dietrich, Assistant Vice Chancellor of Advocacy and State Relations, discussed the CSU's advocacy efforts in Sacramento, focusing on budget advocacy and related initiatives.
• The State Policy Process: Ellen Cesaretti-Monroy, Senior Consultant for the Assembly Higher Education Committee, explained how bills become laws, giving students a behind-the-scenes look at the legislative process.
• The State Budget Process: Mark Martin, Senior Consultant for the Assembly Budget Subcommittee #3 on Education, detailed the state budget process, including key deadlines and the importance of budget advocacy for education.

Afternoon Sessions:

• Addressing the Cost of Attendance: Manny Rodriguez from The Institute for College Access and Success discussed how the CSU and its campuses calculate the cost of attendance for students.
• Supporting Undocu Students & Those With Mixed Status Families: Jessie Hernandez-Reyes from the California Undocumented Higher Education Coalition discussed SB 98 and SB 323, two bills co-sponsored by CSSA, which aim to support undocumented students and those with mixed-status families.
• Resources for Students With Dependents: Andrew Avila from Early Edge California discussed SB 271, another CSSA co-sponsored bill, and provided information on resources available for student parents.
• Student's Financial Aid: Alex Zucco from the California Student Aid Commission (CSAC) discussed legislation supported by CSSA to assist students with financial aid, as well as ongoing efforts to reform the financial aid system. 

Lobbying and Advocacy Day Preparation:

To conclude the day's learning, attendees collaborated with students from other CSU campuses to prepare for the upcoming Advocacy Day at the Capitol. This session focused on strategizing for their meetings with legislators, ensuring they were well-prepared to effectively represent their campus and advocate for the needs of their fellow students. 

These workshops and the collaborative preparation session collectively offered a comprehensive and empowering experience for students attending CHESS, equipping them with the knowledge and skills to be effective advocates for higher education in California. 

Assembly Woman Heather Hadwick Meeting:

A student delegation of our student leaders, Commissioner of Legislative Affairs Madison Kelley, Vice President of Business and Finance Rishika Tyagi, and Director of Academic Affairs Dev Kachiwala met with Andrew Nickens from Assembly Member Heather Hadwick's office to advocate against Governor Newsom's proposed 8% budget cut to the CSU system. They argued that the cuts would negatively impact students by increasing class sizes, delaying graduation, and potentially raising tuition, disproportionately affecting low-income students and hindering enrollment efforts. Highlighting Chico State's commitment to small class sizes and close student-professor relationships, they emphasized the value of affordable, quality education. Nickens responded that Assembly Member Hadwick had already rejected the proposed cuts and acknowledged the demographic challenges facing higher education in California. The students concluded the meeting by expressing their appreciation for the assembly member's support.

Assembly Member James Gallagher Meeting:

A delegation of our student leaders, including AS President Chris Sullivan, Vice President of Business and Finance Rishika Tyagi, and Director of Academic Affairs Dev Kachiwala, met with Assemblymember James Gallagher's office to discuss critical issues impacting Chico State students. We voiced our concerns about the proposed $376 million budget cuts to the CSU, emphasizing the potential for enrollment caps, declining enrollment, and the disproportionate burden on low-income students who rely on campus jobs and financial aid. We advocated for increased support for students with dependents and basic needs, highlighting the success of programs like the Chico State Pantry Diaper Program and the need for better coordination of resources across the CSU system. Additionally, we raised concerns about the rising cost of attendance, particularly for international students, and the potential impact of budget cuts on vital programs like the Child Development Lab. While we also addressed SB 98 and the protection of undocumented students, it appears immigration policy is not a priority for the Assemblymember. Gallagher is likely to reject the overall budget proposal but may support specific allocations, particularly those focused on reducing administrative costs. This meeting provided a valuable opportunity to directly advocate for our student body and ensure our voices are heard in the state legislature.

Assembly Member Steven Choi Meeting:

A delegation of our student leaders, including AS President Chris Sullivan, Vice President of Business and Finance Rishika Tyagi, and Director of Academic Affairs Dev Kachiwala, met with Karan Brar, a legislative office worker for Assemblymember Steven Choi, to discuss the devastating impact of the proposed 8% budget cuts to the CSU system. We emphasized the potential consequences for half a million students, particularly low-income and first-generation students who rely on on-campus jobs and affordable education. We highlighted the discrepancy between the Cost of Attendance (COA) listed on official documents and the actual expenses, especially for international students. Our team also expressed concerns about the potential loss of funding for Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSI) and vital student support services like mental health resources, which are essential for fostering a sense of belonging and academic success. 

Additionally, we addressed the fears and uncertainties faced by undocumented and mixed-status students due to immigration policies, advocating for the protection of their right to education. We were informed that Assemblymember Choi, given his background as a former UC Irvine professor and his commitment to education quality, is likely to oppose the budget cuts and support funding adjustments related to the COA. While he expressed support for protecting students' rights, he may abstain from votes related to immigration due to his Republican stance

Madison Kelley is the current Commissioner of Legislative Affairs for the Associated Students. This is her second term, with her serving as the Senator for the College of Business during the 2023-2024 academic year. She's a 4^th year at Chico State major­ing in Busi­ness Admin­is­tra­tion with a focus in Mar­ket­ing. To reach out to Madison, email her at as-legaffairs@csuchico.edu.