APSCUF’s February 2018 legislative assembly approved the following statement about Pennsylvania Promise — Higher Ed:
Whereas the Association of Pennsylvania State College and University Faculties (APSCUF) believes Pennsylvania needs to keep its promise to those seeking high-quality and affordable higher education in the Commonwealth.
Whereas access to a high-quality education at a Pennsylvania community college, State System university, or state-related university is necessary for a competitive 21st century workforce.
Whereas research consistently confirms that college graduates earn significantly more over their lifetimes, which contributes to the state and local tax bases.
Whereas a college education contributes to a more educated and engaged citizenry.
Whereas because of costs, too many students must choose between either taking on the burden of tens of thousands of dollars of debt or not attending college at all.
Whereas this generation of current and potential college students deserves an opportunity to receive a high-quality and affordable college education similar to those generations that preceded them.
Whereas it is unacceptable that Pennsylvania ranks 47th out of 50 states in per-capita spending on public higher education.
Therefore, be it resolved that:
- APSCUF will support legislative proposals to make higher education more affordable for Pennsylvanians.
- APSCUF will participate actively in the promotion of legislation that aims to make higher education affordable for students.
- APSCUF will advocate strongly for affordable-tuition proposals when communicating with elected officials, candidates, and the public.