Leading college access non-profit aims to increase postsecondary success in the Empire State
NEW YORK- The Institute for College Access and Success (TICAS), one of the nation’s leading higher education research and advocacy nonprofit organizations, announced today the expansion of its state policy and advocacy portfolio to the State of New York.
“Our expansion to New York aligns with TICAS’ strategy of advocating for long-term and long-lasting reforms to the higher education system at both the federal and state levels,” said Sameer Gadkaree, President of TICAS. “TICAS stands ready and equipped to work with policymakers, community leaders, and fellow advocates to bring about meaningful supports and protections on behalf of students and borrowers in New York.”
To lead the effort, TICAS announced that Kirsten E. Keefe, a longtime consumer rights and economic justice advocate, has joined the organization as the Senior Director of Advocacy and Policy for New York. Based in the Albany area, Keefe will lead research, policy, and advocacy initiatives to advance college access, affordability, and accountability for all New Yorkers.
“Joining TICAS is an opportunity to contribute to New York’s higher education ecosystem to ensure students statewide have access to affordable postsecondary education,” said Keefe. “I am looking forward to collaborating with key stakeholders, elected officials, community and nonprofit groups, students and borrowers to advocate for impactful policy changes that will provide greater access to higher education while ensuring New York’s postsecondary education sector delivers high-quality programs.”
This effort is supported by Robin Hood, New York City’s largest local anti-poverty philanthropy. As part of its poverty-fighting mission, Robin Hood funds initiatives that provide low-income students with clear pathways to accessing higher education and completing post-secondary degrees and training.
“A college degree remains one of the most powerful vehicles to economic mobility, opening doors to higher-paying jobs and greater financial security. By addressing the financial barriers that prevent too many New Yorkers from completing their education, we can ensure that all students, regardless of their financial circumstances, can achieve their academic and career aspirations,” said Matt Klein, Chief Program & Impact Officer at Robin Hood.
Today, TICAS also releases its inaugural New York report, “Higher Education Affordability in the Empire State,” which analyzes the cost of college for students from low-income backgrounds attending the State University of New York (SUNY) and the City University of New York (CUNY). Students from families with low incomes may receive sufficient aid to cover the average cost of tuition, fees, and supplies, but not enough to cover non-tuition costs, including transportation, food, housing, and other expenses. TICAS’ analysis indicates more severe gaps for today’s students who are older and financially independent.
New York becomes the third state in which TICAS has an active role in state higher education policy, joining California and Michigan. Using a proven track record in advancing regulatory, administrative policy, and legislative action at the state level, TICAS aims to expand its impact to the Empire State.
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