For the past two weeks, House Republicans have been preparing to square off with President Barack Obama and Democrats over next year’s budget. Some 800 Georgetown students who receive Pell Grants will have a serious stake in this fight—billions of dollars in federal student aid hang in the balance. Republicans would like to cut the maximum Pell Grant by $845 per year and eliminate more than $1.8 million for the Federal Supplemental Education Opportunity Grant program. The president’s budget is less harsh on the program, maintaining the maximum grant amount of $5,550, but cutting the total number of Pell Grants handed out per year. So while the Republicans’ proposal is egregious, and must be opposed, Obama’s proposal is hardly better.
These proposed cuts to federal student aid are attempts by both parties to balance the budget at the expense of the country’s most vulnerable citizens—something Obama explicitly promised to avoid in his State of the Union address. While his proposal is likely a result of political circumstances, Obama must recognize that now is the time for government to help those struggling most, not cut the lifeline they depend upon.
Republicans are also being irresponsible lawmakers. Although they demanded an extension to the Bush Tax Cuts for the wealthiest two percent of Americans—costing $120 billion over two years—they have now decided that the comparably miniscule amount needed to keep thousands of American students in the classroom is too great a cost for the federal government to bear. For students, it’s becoming painfully clear where the priorities of our elected leaders lie.
The University’s reaction has been clear and effective. An effort spearheaded by Dean of Student Financial Services Patricia McWade and Associate Vice President of Federal Relations Scott Fleming has made it possible for Georgetown students who benefit from Pell Grants to share their stories with the public and members of Congress. This past fall, Fleming and McWade helped Joe Hill (COL’11) testify before Congress about how federal student aid made college affordable for him. Two weeks ago, McWade emailed students receiving Pell Grants to explain to them what they can expect if cuts are passed and urging more students to share their stories.
Misguided political pressure for unnecessary, harmful cuts may be alleviated if those at risk speak out. Georgetown University and its Office of Federal Relations in particular have gone to praiseworthy lengths to raise awareness about what is going on. Students should follow the University’s advice and speak up to let their congressional representatives know how important student aid is. Students may be some of this nation’s most financially vulnerable citizens, but we do not need to be the quietest.
