The California State Student Association (CSSA) held a meeting this past weekend 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.
The first week of April 2025 saw California State University (CSU) representatives descend upon the nation's capital for an impactful and engaging Hill Week. From student leaders making their voices heard to alumni connecting across the country, it was a dynamic few days focused on advocacy and building crucial relationships. Here's a glimpse into the busy agenda that showcased the strength and reach of the CSU system in Washington D.C.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.
Hill Week | April 2025
Tuesday, April 8th: Laying the Groundwork and Connecting with Alumni
The week kicked off with the Student Leadership Luncheon, held in the prestigious Rayburn House Office Building. This vital event brought together student leaders from across the CSU system who were in D.C. for Hill Week activities. They had the invaluable opportunity to hear from a diverse panel of speakers, including Andrew Carrillo, an alumnus from San Francisco State University now working in the office of Senator Alex Padilla, and Rachel Hunter, a Pomona College alum from the office of Congresswoman Angie Craig. Their insights into navigating the political landscape and the importance of advocacy were undoubtedly inspiring for the student leaders. We were also honored to have Andrew Jackson from the College of American Pathologists and Eric Smith from the Government Accountability Office share their perspectives. Representing our own Chico State, Savannah Coughlin from the office of Congressman Doug LaMalfa also offered her expertise. The luncheon also provided a platform for engagement with professionals like Jagir Patel from Phillips & Cohen and Dominique Little from the Blockchain Foundation & Paradigm, showcasing the diverse career paths of individuals connected to higher education.
As the afternoon transitioned into evening, the CSU spirit moved beyond Capitol Hill and into the stands of Nationals Park for Alumni in the Outfield. This exciting event brought together CSU alumni from across the nation for a pre-game mixer before cheering on the Los Angeles Dodgers as they took on the Washington Nationals. What better way to connect than over America's pastime? This event highlighted the strong and widespread network of CSU graduates and provided a fantastic opportunity for camaraderie and shared CSU pride.
Wednesday, April 9th: Deep Dives and a Hill Day Kickoff
Wednesday focused on strategic engagement and preparation. The Joint Senate Staff Meeting in the Senate Russell Building was a key event, tailored for campus legislative liaisons and students, but open to all within the CSU system. This session provided a valuable opportunity to connect directly with Senate staff and gain a deeper understanding of the legislative process. We were thrilled to have Adrienne Epstein and Andrew Carrillo from Senator Padilla's office continue their engagement with the CSU, alongside Jamie Thompson from Senator Adam Schiff's office and Dahvi Cohen, also from Senator Schiff's team. These discussions undoubtedly provided crucial insights for effective advocacy on behalf of the CSU.
The evening culminated in the Hill Day Kickoff Reception at the AC Marriott Washington DC Capitol Hill Navy Yard. This internal event was specifically for the CSU Hill Week participants, including staff and students from campuses like Chico State. It served as a crucial opportunity to connect, strategize, and build momentum for the following day's direct engagement on Capitol Hill. The reception featured welcome remarks followed by an insightful fireside chat with Paul Glastris, the Editor in Chief of the Washington Monthly. His perspective on the political landscape and higher education policy undoubtedly set the stage for productive meetings. The evening concluded with a rooftop reception, allowing participants to network and solidify their plans for Hill Day.
Thursday, April 10th: Direct Engagement on Capitol Hill
Thursday marked the core of Hill Day, with direct meetings scheduled with key members of Congress. A significant meeting took place in the Cannon House Office Building with Congressman Mike Thompson. Attendees included President Perez, alongside dedicated CSU advocates Ashley Gebb, Shari Anderson, Chris Sullivan, and Madison Kelley. This meeting, scheduled by Emma Tomaszewski, provided a vital opportunity to directly communicate the CSU's priorities and advocate for the needs of our students and institutions.
Following this, the CSU team headed to another meeting in the Cannon House Office Building, this time with Congressman Doug LaMalfa. President Perez was again present, along with Chris Sullivan, Madison Kelley, Ashley Gebb, and Shari Anderson. Given Congressman LaMalfa's connection as a Chico State alum, this meeting, scheduled by his staff member Savannah Coughlin, offered a unique opportunity to connect on a personal level and discuss the specific impact of CSU on his district and the state.
The culmination of the day's efforts was the CSU Congressional Reception, held in the prestigious Speaker Nancy Pelosi Caucus Room in the Cannon House Building. This high-profile event brought together Hill staff, members of Congress, and CSU representatives, including President Perez. It served as a crucial platform to further build relationships, share the CSU's story, and advocate for our priorities with key decision-makers in Washington D.C. CSU Hill Week in Washington D.C. was a resounding success, demonstrating the commitment of our students, alumni, and leadership to actively engage in the political process and advocate for the vital role the California State University system plays in our state and nation. The diverse agenda, from empowering student leaders to connecting with alumni and directly engaging with members of Congress, showcased the strength and unity of the CSU community.
CSSA Plenary | April 2025
Systemwide Affairs Committee:
The Systemwide Affairs Committee recently convened for a productive session, tackling two key areas of focus for the California State University (CSU) system. Deputy Vice Chancellor Perez of Academic and Student Affairs provided the committee with an insightful overview of the Year of Engagement initiative. This discussion likely highlighted the progress, successes, and ongoing efforts to foster deeper connections and collaborations across the CSU system and with external partners.
A significant portion of the meeting was dedicated to a crucial discussion facilitated by San Jose State University AS President Ariana Lacson. The committee engaged in a thoughtful dialogue regarding a Resolution in Support of Trans Students Rights. President Lacson presented the draft resolution, aiming to solicit valuable feedback and ensure the committee's informed consideration of this important issue impacting CSU students. This discussion underscores the CSU's commitment to fostering an inclusive and supportive environment for all its students.
Internal Affairs Committee:
The Joint Committee of Internal Affairs and Finance recently convened to address key fiscal policies for the California State Student Association (CSSA). A significant portion of their agenda focused on the Budget and Reserves Policy. Committee members carefully considered proposed revisions to this crucial document, which hadn't been updated since 2016. Following their review of the revised policy, accompanying line-by-line changes, and the current policy, the committee moved to adopt the revisions. This action signifies a commitment to ensuring the CSSA's financial practices are current and well-defined.
The committee also addressed the CSSA Fiscal and Purchasing Policy, also last revised in 2016. Chair Carrillo and Vice President Coari led a discussion outlining the justification for its dissolution. After careful consideration of the provided rationale and the current policy, the committee proceeded to a vote on whether to dissolve the Fiscal and Purchasing Policy. This decision likely reflects a strategic move to streamline or consolidate existing financial guidelines within the CSSA.
Finance Committee:
During their recent meeting, the Finance Committee dedicated a significant portion of their time to understanding the financial landscape of the California State Student Association (CSSA). The primary focus was an Information Item centered around the FY 2025-26 CSSA Budget Breakdown. Chair Coari and Assistant Director Martinez provided the committee with a detailed overview of the projected income and anticipated expenditures for the upcoming fiscal year. This in-depth discussion aimed to ensure committee members had a clear grasp of the proposed financial plan, as detailed in the Draft FY 2025-26 CSSA Budget.
Following this forward-looking discussion, the committee also reviewed the April 2025 Financial Statement, another Information Item presented by Chair Coari and Assistant Director Martinez. This segment of the meeting focused on providing the committee with an update on the actual financial status of the CSSA as of the beginning of April 2025, as presented in the Actuals Statement 4.1.25. This review allows the committee to stay informed about the organization's current financial health and track its performance against budgetary projections.
Legislative Affairs Committee:
The Legislative Affairs Committee recently convened to address key legislative and civic engagement matters. A primary Action Item on their agenda was AB 1098 (Fong), a bill concerning postsecondary education and the rights of undergraduate and graduate students facing pregnancy or pregnancy-related issues. The committee engaged in a discussion of the Bill Language and accompanying Bill Analysis before moving to consider a recommendation of a Support position for the legislation. This reflects the committee's commitment to advocating for the well-being and equitable treatment of student parents within the CSU system.
In addition to legislative action, the committee also received an Information Item regarding the CIVIC Competition. Chair Esera provided updates on the competition, likely highlighting its progress, participation levels, and any key developments. This update underscores the committee's interest in fostering civic engagement and providing opportunities for student involvement in democratic processes.
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 4th 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.