"Although students are the University of California’s most persuasive advocates, many are unaware of how to speak out and share their stories with lawmakers. To help, UC’s government relations teams created a student advocacy program within its grassroots digital advocacy efforts that empowers a diverse coalition of UC students to use their voices to influence higher education policies.
The UC Advocacy Network (UCAN) Student Ambassador Program began in 2018 and has grown significantly, with 105 ambassadors joining the program in 2020-21--the largest class of ambassadors ever. These students are as diverse as UC itself. They represent all 10 campuses, most receive some form of financial aid, and more than half are the first in their families to go to college. By joining the student ambassador program, they gain advocacy skills, mentoring, and build a professional network.
UCAN student ambassadors achieved important victories in 2021: their advocacy helped the university receive its highest level of state funding ever and supported the introduction of a federal bill to double the amount of federal financial aid low-income students can receive through the Pell Grant program. Ambassadors learn about the legislative process, including how grassroots advocacy campaigns are developed, and are given opportunities to speak directly with lawmakers and their staffs."
From the Judges
A creative way to instill philanthropy values within students by asking them to become ambassadors to promote the university.
