Summer days are considered a break from the normal routine for most students, but for student leaders, the summer means more time to work on behalf of the University.
“It is a time to really step back and reflect on what the priorities will be for next year and how you can be most effective,” said Student Body Vice President Adrian Johnston.
Last summer members of student government spent time in Raleigh lobbying against a proposed 1.7 percent budget cut. This year is not much different.
Congress Speaker Luke Farley said that this summer Congress advocated against budget cuts to the UNC system and voiced concern about tuition increases.
“We have been working for students,” Farley said. “We have made lobbying trips to the General Assembly to advocate for students.”
Both Johnston and Student Body President Seth Dearmin have made several trips to Raleigh themselves to speak with representatives about the budget.
“Our presence in Raleigh shows that students do care about this and are taking time to have our voices heard,” Dearmin said.
Johnston said that representatives have been receptive to their input and that it’s clear the elected officials care about UNC-Chapel Hill.
Farley also stressed the importance of advocacy.