Buffalo, NY - For more than 150 years, Canisius University has opened its doors to higher education for students of all backgrounds. That legacy - and our students’ futures - are now at risk.
Congress is considering a budget bill that would eliminate $349 billion from federal student aid over the next 10 years, significantly reducing access to Pell Grants and federal student loans for both undergraduate and graduate students.
To stop these harmful cuts, Canisius is asking for alumni, faculty, staff and friends to speak up for students by contacting your U.S. senators and representatives using the Save Student Aid link below.
These drastic cuts threaten the future of our Golden Griffins - and our entire community.
The vast majority of Canisius students receive some form of financial aid, with millions of dollars in federal funding going to support them annually. For undergraduate students, the proposed changes would reduce Pell Grant eligibility by imposing stricter income limits and work requirements. Graduate students face elimination of subsidized loans and reduced access to federal aid programs altogether.
Why this matters
Current students: You’ve worked hard to earn your place at Canisius University. These federal programs may mean the difference between staying on track or falling behind.
Families: With the help of federal aid, you’re able to stretch your investment in your child’s future - and ensure it pays off.
Alumni: Whether through Pell Grants, work study or student loans, federal programs likely helped fund your Canisius experience. Today’s students deserve the same opportunity you had.
Faculty and staff: You see every day that student talent isn’t limited by income. Your voice can help those students whose potential depends on these programs.
Community members: Educational access strengthens our entire region as Canisius graduates go on to become the next business leaders, educators, healthcare workers and community servants. Western New York's future depends on this pipeline of professionals.
Our Jesuit tradition calls us to be “men and women for and with others.” Now is the time to answer that call.
Federal lawmakers need to hear from real Griffins about real consequences. They need to know that behind every statistic is a student studying to build a future, a graduate who once did, a family navigating college costs and a community strengthened by an accessible education.
The Student Aid Alliance has created a simple tool that allows you to contact your U.S. senators and representatives about protecting federal student aid programs. Canisius University asks that you click on the link below to send a pre-written message or personalize it with your own Canisius story.
Don’t stop at signing.
Share this message with fellow Canisius alumni, colleagues, friends and anyone who believes in access to higher education. You’ll help ensure that all students can pursue a Canisius University education that will transform their lives and strengthen our community for generations to come.
