Advocacy

The PSU Advocates work on promoting public policy supportive of higher education and Portland State University. The Advocates are especially active during a year when the Oregon Legislature is in session, but are engaged in activities every year.

Primary goal to raise awareness

Our goal is to raise awareness about the importance of higher education, and correspondingly to raise the amount of resources allocated for higher education and PSU.

During the 2000-2001 school year we carried out many activities in pursuit of this goal.

• Met with Congressman Earl Blumenauer.
• Supported coalition against ballot measures that would have adversely affected higher education.
• Sponsored four ballot measure forums on campus, attended by over 200 people.
• Organized and sponsored PSU's participation in the state-wide higher education rally in Salem.
• Provided testimony at legislative hearings.
• Made personal visits, letters and calls to legislators.
• Conducted an advocates training session in January, attended by 45 people.

Leaders listen to alumni

We have found that direct alumni contact with legislators seems to be the most effective method of communication. A rally on the Capitol Steps to address the needs of higher education also seemed to make an impact. We encourage all alumni, and all Oregonians, to take an active role in ensuring the continuation of affordable higher education for all.