SUPPORT PLU STUDENTS
Washington state lawmakers passed budget cuts targeting low-income students who choose private, non-profit universities. The Washington College Grant cuts hit in 2026, and the College Bound Scholarship reductions will follow in Fall 2027.
The upcoming 105-day session is our chance to fully restore this funding before thousands of future Lutes face severe financial hardship. We must hold the state to its promise: every hard-working student deserves an affordable path to the college that best fits their dreams.
WHY THIS MATTERS
PLU serves more College Bound Scholars —families averaging $33,000 annually— than any other private university in Washington. Nearly 25% of PLU students rely on this aid; among them, 75% are students of color and 76% are first-generation college students.
Legislative cuts threaten up to $6,500 per year for College Bound students. Your voice is crucial to restoring this vital funding, protecting our students’ futures, and upholding our shared mission of building a strong, diverse local workforce.
OUR TEAM
To amplify the student voice and restore crucial state student aid funding, a dedicated team of four PLU Student Advocacy Fellows is leading student organizing efforts to fix these cuts to the Washington College Bound Scholarship.
Meet Jilma
Meet Cady
Meet Corbin
Meet Mason
Meet Itzel
Meet Emilie
What the Fellows Do
The Fellows are responsible for many advocacy activities designed to empower and mobilize the PLU community.
Gather Student Stories
Collecting powerful accounts to demonstrate the real-world impact of financial aid and the value of a PLU education.
Conduct Policy Research
Analyzing policy effects to inform our advocacy strategies.
Host Training & Events
Organizing workshops and sessions to equip students with advocacy skills.
Create Advocacy Toolkits
Developing resources for students, alumni, faculty, and staff.
Communicate & Engage
Informing the broader student body about their vital role in advocacy.
The Hard Facts: What Changed?
Senate Bill 5785 (2025 Legislative Session) drastically changes how Washington State Financial Aid supports PLU students.
College Bound Program
BEFORE SB 5785
Students received ≈$13,000
(Until 2026-27)
AFTER SB 5785 (Starting Academic Year)
Students will receive ≈$6,500
(Starting 2027-28)
THE IMPACT
≈$6,500 decrease per student, per year.
College Grant Program
BEFORE SB 5785
Students could receive up to ≈$9,739
(Until 2025-26)
AFTER SB 5785 (Starting Academic Year)
Students could receive up to ≈$6,200
(Starting 2026-27)
THE IMPACT
≈$3,539 decrease per student, per year.
Upcoming Advocacy Events
Sept. 17, 2026
Rock the Vote
- We are in the middle of election season for state and local officies that shape our day-to-day lives. Come find out who is on your ballot
- how to make your voice heard
- and how to stay civically active year-round.