In the face of the historic state budget impasse, Clarion University students joined students from the 13 other State System of Higher Education universities to attend a rally in Harrisburg this week advocating for the fair funding of the schools.
About 300 protesters took part in the rally Monday at the state capitol building. With the Association of Pennsylvania State College and University Faculties at their back, the participants spoke about the importance of significant funding for the 14 institutions.
Clarion University Student Senate president Jarrett Boxley was one of several Clarion students who attended the event.
“I’m glad I could represent Clarion University at the ‘United We Stand, Underfunded We Fail’ budget rally,” said Boxley.
As a proponent of low tuition for the State System schools, Boxley said he feels it is important that state funding come in soon because student loans have risen.
Boxley expressed concern that State System tuition has risen across the board by about 20 percent in the last few years.
“This then led to cuts in faculty and staff, a loss in courses offered, an increase in the student-to-faculty ratio and so much more,” Boxley said.
Boxley, who is a senior majoring in strategic communication, wanted to make a difference and hoped people tuned in to what students like him had to say.
Digital media major Brana Hill spoke out in front of the attendees.
“Without the funding of educations for our students in Pennsylvania, we will miss the opportunity to support the success of generations to come,” Hill said.
Hill prides herself on being a politically active young woman who will not be silent.
“My only hope after visiting Harrisburg is that this district considers what example it wants to hold to America,” said Hill.
Students from Clarion and Slippery Rock universities had the chance to meet with State Sen. Scott Hutchinson of Oil City.
Stephanie Kulikowski knew the importance of the event she attended, but had a fun time as well.
She returned home to enthusiastically talk about the rally’s symbolic success and infectious atmosphere.
“The energy was great,” Kulikowski said.
Students and faculty are using the hashtag #fundorfail to keep the issue relevant.