The University of California Advocacy Network (UCAN) is seeking student ambassadors to champion UC’s teaching, research and public service missions while serving as liaisons between their campus and Sacramento.
Students from across the university were a potent political force last year, helping to persuade state lawmakers to invest in UC and keep tuition flat. With the prospect of both a new governor and newly elected lawmakers in 2019, the program will need a diverse, vibrant cohort of ambassadors to build public and legislative support for the university and its students.
The UCAN student ambassador program is open to both graduate and undergraduate students. Students must be able to devote 15-20 hours per month and be willing to engage in student outreach at their campus.
“We’re looking for students who are passionate about UC and interested in helping us build a strong network of students who want to speak out in support of the university and its mission,” said Jennifer Brice, a recent UCLA graduate who is now the advocacy and communications manager for the UC Office of the President State Governmental Relations office.
In addition to helping boost student participation in UCAN, student ambassadors will learn about the state legislative and budget processes and how they impact the UC system. Student ambassadors will have opportunities to attend advocacy events in Sacramento, testify at state budget hearings to lobby for more state funding for UC, and meet with legislators and staff to share their UC story.
Applications are due November 11, and the program runs from December 2018 through May 2019.
Learn more about becoming a UCAN student ambassador here.