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On November 10, Saint Xavier Students travelled down to Springfield Illinois for a rally concerning recent financial decisions regarding Monetary Assistance Program (MAP) Grant funding. Saint Xavier University did not receive the funding they had expected for the academic year, which puts the university in a position of need.
All SXU students received an email requesting their presence for the rally, the more students that would be able to go, the better. In order to go on the trip, students simply had to reserve a spot by contacting Jean Riordan from Career Services. The coordinator for this event was Joan Knox, the Executive Director of External and Legislative Affairs.
In an interview via email, Jean Riordan, Assistant Vice President for Student Affairs and Director of Career Services, provided some information about the MAP Grant and the trip down to Springfield.
“The MAP Grant refers to the financial aid offered through Monetary Assistance Program grants. These funds are appropriated by the Illinois General Assembly each year to help Illinois students pay for tuition and mandatory fees. Approximately 51% of our current undergraduate student receive MAP grants. We are going to Springfield on Tuesday to urge the Illinois government to release the funds for this program that are currently on hold in the state budget,” said Riordan.
Although there is a large amount of SXU students who do not receive this type of grant, it would be a devastating loss for those who did. Riordan spoke about the importance of the trip and why it is essential for all students to attend or be aware of the issue.
“Whether or not you are a current recipient of a MAP grant, it’s important to note that the loss of these funds will have a significant impact on the institution as a whole. Aside from the financial issues at stake, students who are interested in future careers in political science, government, education, or public policy can benefit from participating in lobbying activities,” said Riordan.
When SXU students and faculty arrive in Springfield for the rally, they will meet in the Capitol Rotunda with other students from Illinois on the first floor where they will listen to a number of supportive legislators. After that, students will have the chance to visit legislators’ offices to emphasize the importance of supporting SB 2043, the MAP Appropriations Bill.
At noon, the House will come into session with a “Committee of the Whole” which will be a meeting of the entire House. Many SXU students planned to be a part of this rally. One of these students is junior education major Hector George. He explains why he decided to be a part of this rally and why it is important for people to join their university in this event.
“Being a future educator and a recipient of a MAP grant, it is important for the State of Illinois to not only release the funds, but the appropriate and necessary funds that students need. Over half of the students here at SXU receive MAP grant funding. This is a rally that will affect them, future generations who will attend Saint Xavier, and the institution as a whole,” said George.
George continues on to explain why he thinks it is important for students to attend this rally in Springfield. “It is not only important to send students to the rally, but for the students to participate in the rally itself. Since the state budget that funds MAP has not yet been finalized by Governor Rauner and State Legislators, we do not know how much funding we will receive for the 2015-2016 year. Students and staff members need to pressure them to release funds for MAP grants,” said George.
For students who were unable to attend the rally but still would like to voice their opinion about the MAP grant funding, there are a few things that they can do. “Students can and should contact the Governor’s office and their local representatives to voice their opinion about the release of MAP funds. Students can introduce themselves and explain that they are a Saint Xavier University student who is urging them to fund MAP now. Emails will work as well,” said Riordan.
Governor Bruce Rauner’s office can be reached by phone or through email. This and more information can be found on his website. For George, and likely other students going to the rally, he is most looking forward to meeting up with other students from across Illinois to make a difference.
“I am really looking forward in joining with other students from both public and private institutions from all across the state to get what we all want and need,” said George. On final notes, Riordan spoke about her excitement for the event and great response they have received regarding attendance for the rally before Tuesday.
“We have had a wonderful response from students for the rally so far. I am honored and proud to accompany such a committed and hardworking group of students to this event,” said Riordan.
Julie Gardner
Senior News Editor
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