The California State Student Association (CSSA) held a virtual meeting in November, 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 this past weekend.
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 AS President and Commissioner of Legislative Affairs attend these meetings to represent California State University, Chico. In the event they cannot, the Commissioner of Student Engagement and Advocacy attends as proxy.
CSSA Plenary | November 2025
Issues Affecting the CSU System
Several key issues continue to impact the California State University (CSU) system, including funding shortages, rising enrollment, and limited class availability. Many CSU campuses in Northern California are experiencing enrollment growth that exceeds their capacity to adequately provide basic needs, housing, and course offerings. Despite this increase in student enrollment, overall state funding for the CSU system has decreased, straining university resources. Notably, funding reductions for Hispanic-Serving Institutions (HSIs) have resulted in a $350 million cut in federal support, directly affecting campuses that serve large Hispanic/Latine student populations and the programs that support them. CSSA will continue to advocate for increased funding for basic needs services and student support programs across the CSU system in future meetings and legislative sessions.
CSSA Legislative Updates
CSSA continues to monitor key state and federal legislation that impacts students across the CSU. Current priorities include bills related to financial aid, basic needs support, campus safety, and student housing. As new proposals move through committees, CSSA will provide updated summaries, positions, and opportunities for student advocacy. Members should stay tuned for weekly updates as we track important votes and budget decisions affecting the CSU system.
Hill Week 2026 – April 13–16, 2026
Hill Week 2026 is quickly approaching, and CSUs are preparing a strong delegation to advocate for student priorities in Washington, D.C. During this four-day event, student leaders will meet with congressional offices, share personal stories, and push for federal support in areas such as financial aid, mental health services, and campus resources. More details on training, scheduling, and preparation will be provided as we get closer to the event.
New Congressional Districts
With the release of updated congressional district maps, several campuses may now fall under new representation. These changes may shift advocacy strategies, as priorities and office contacts could differ from previous years. We will be watching the new boundaries and updating its outreach lists to ensure students are connected with the correct congressional offices. Members will receive guidance on how to identify and engage with their newly assigned representatives.
Next Board of Trustees Meeting – January 27–28
The next CSU Board of Trustees meeting will take place on January 27–28, where key decisions affecting students, funding, and systemwide policies will be discussed. CSSA will be preparing materials, public comments, and student speakers to ensure student voices are represented in upcoming discussions. Members should watch for pre-meeting updates and opportunities to participate or stay informed.
Government Is Back Open
With the government officially reopened; federal offices and agency operations have resumed, allowing previously delayed processes and communications to move forward. This means services such as grant processing, federal program support, and government-based meetings can continue as normal. CSSA will now re-engage with federal partners, reschedule postponed conversations, and move forward with planned advocacy efforts for the semester.
CSU AI Whitepaper
The systemwide affairs committee is currently writing a white paper on AI. Perdue Owel defines A white paper as “to advocate that a certain position is the best way to go or that a certain solution is best for a particular problem. When it is used for commercial purposes, it could influence the decision-making processes of current and prospective customers.” Here is the attached white paper.
The next plenary meeting will be held January 24-25, 2026 at Sonoma State University. Plenary meetings are open to the public in accordance with Gloria Romero Open Meetings Act of 2000. Meetings take place monthly (with the exception December and June). The agenda for regularly scheduled meetings are posted no later than three (3) days prior to the meeting date. For more information or to voice your concerns, please reach out to your elected student representatives.
Gia Monticello is the current Commissioner of Legislative Affairs for the Associated Students. Originally from the East Bay Area, this is her first term serving in the AS Government. She is a First-Generation student majoring in Liberal Studies with a minor in Special Education. As Commissioner, Gia is committed to educating students about state and CSU systemwide legislation that impacts their college experience. To reach out to Gia, email her at as-legaffairs@csuchico.edu.
