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Higher Education

A highly-educated workforce is essential to ensuring that the L.A. area is a cornerstone of the global economy. The Chamber works with the City of Los Angeles, the Los Angeles Unified School District, the L.A. Community College District, local universities and other partners to ensure that young people have the opportunity to earn the best-possible education.

CURRENT ISSUES

• Support H.R. 3221- Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act
• Improve student access to and completion of post-secondary education
• Increase funding and accessibility to state and federal financial aid programs
• Increase student retention and completion rates at community colleges and universities

 ACCOMPLISHMENTS

Providing Students with Cash for College                 

 

 The L.A. Area Chamber awarded 690 scholarships totaling more than $1 million to deserving college-bound students. Working together with our "Cash for College Campaign" partners, the Chamber hosts a series of financial aid workshops connecting thousands of students with college opportunities. This statewide program was founded by the Chamber in 2002.
Helped Save Cal-Grant Program
Successfully opposed the elimination of Cal Grants, the only state-supported financial aid program for California's low-income students.

Making the Financial Aid Process Easier
Simplified the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA) to make it easier for students to apply for federal financial aid. The L.A. Area Chamber worked with stakeholders on improvements to this important gateway application for financial aid opportunities.
Increased Pell Grants
Successfully advocated for an increase in Pell Grants from $5,350 in the 2009-2010 school year to $5,550 in the 2010-2011 school year. An additional 800,000 students will also be covered by Pell Grants — an important vehicle to pay for tuition expenses. 

 

 RESOURCES

 
PRESENTATIONS & DOCUMENTS
Race to the Top Funding
H.R. 3221 Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act - Support Letter
 
WEB SITES