Nine students traveled to Harrisburg last week to meet with state legislators as part of AICUP’s annual “Day on the Hill” experience.

“Our student delegation, comprised of Political Science and other students along with Anthony Taylor, lobbied for higher education funding here at Neumann and across the commonwealth,” said Dr. Robert McMonagle. Taylor is the assistant director of student engagement.

“We met privately with the most powerful woman in Pennsylvania, House Speaker Joanna McClinton, with PA State Rep. Leanne Krueger (PA-161), and a key staffer with Sen. John Kane,” McMonagle added. “They share Neumann's vision and values.”

In a daylong April 9 event sponsored by the Association of Independent Colleges and Universities of Pennsylvania, the Speaker also invited the students to the House Gallery where she publicly recognized Neumann University while the House was in session. The students also attended a press conference in the Capitol Rotunda.

Students enjoyed the experience. “It’s important for students to talk to lawmakers because we’re the ones being affected by their decisions,” said Danielle Dinafo, a Cybersecurity and Digital Forensics major. “When we speak up, it helps them understand what’s really going on in our school and community.”

Katelyn Baier, a Health Sciences major, agreed. “Participating in ACIUP on the Hill in Harrisburg was an amazing and eye-opening experience. It was my first time doing something like this, and it felt empowering to be able to talk with lawmakers. When students and lawmakers come together, it leads to more informed decisions that truly reflect our needs.”

According to McMonagle, “Students now have direct lobbying experience that will bolster their professional development.”