Supporters take part in training and legislative sessions to highlight the need for continued support of vital state programs. (Photos by Mike Ekern, University of St. Thomas)
Hundreds of Minnesota private college and university supporters gather at the State Capitol each year to advocate for student financial aid, specifically the Minnesota State Grant Program. Students learn how to become effective citizen lobbyists while urging their hometown legislators to continue supporting Minnesota students. Day at the Capitol is produced by the Minnesota Private College Council (MPCC) and by students throughout the state to drum up interest in this extremely important program.
As the following points clearly illustrate, participation in this event is especially critical for students at private institutions, including Gustavus Adolphus College:
- One third of all Minnesota baccalaureate recipients each year come from Minnesota’s private colleges.
- One in four private college students in Minnesota benefits from the State Grant Program, which provides financial assistance to all college students. The average State Grant for private college students is $3,100.
- Each Minnesota student who chooses to attend a private college saves state taxpayers as much as $6,000 apiece. The state would have to spend an additional $218 million per year to educate private college students at state-funded institutions.
Day at the Capitol is scheduled for Thursday, March 8, from 7:30 a.m.-7:30 p.m. The event is sponsored at Gustavus by the Student Senate, the Campus Activities Board, and the Minnesota Private College Council. This year’s Day at the Capitol will allow participants to hear from Gustie graduates who work in the legislature, meet current key lawmakers, sit in on Senate or House sessions, take a tour of the State Capitol, have private meetings with their legislators, and much more.
The day is free for all Gustavus students and includes lunch and dinner courtesy of the Gustavus Finance Office. Faculty, staff, alumni, parents, and others impacted by the State Grant Program are also encouraged to attend.
Sign up online
Schedule of Events
Day at the Capitol 2007
Sponsored by Student Senate and the Campus Activities Board
- 7:45 a.m.
Meet at 3 Flags - 8 a.m.
Bus departs Gustavus Adolphus College - 10 a.m.
Program in State Office Building- Lobby training session
- Discussions with key lawmakers
- Meeting with legislators
- 12 Noon
Lunch - 1 p.m.
Full group session in the Great Hall with students from other colleges, including a summary of the day and remarks by keynote speakers - 3 p.m.
Tour of the Capitol provided by the Minnesota Historical Society - 4 p.m.
Leave Capitol for dinner - 4:45 p.m.
Arrive at Khan’s Mongolian Barbecue