FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE

Senator Kennedy Leaves Legacy of Social Justice

Senator Edward Kennedy died Tuesday, August 25th of brain cancer at the age of 77.

HYANNIS PORT, MA—Senator Edward Kennedy was a staunch advocate for college students his entire career.  The federal aid, access and retention programs, and anti-discrimination policies he championed for four decades has allowed millions of students to achieve a higher education.  The United States Student Association and students across the country will look to the late senator for inspiration and wisdom in the continued pursuit to make education a right.

Specifically, his work in creating the Pell Grant enables millions of low-income students to go to college every year.  By taking a leadership position in lowering the voting age to eighteen, Kennedy helped give political voice to millions of civically engaged young adults. 

“Senator Kennedy will long be remembered by students from Massachusetts and across the nation as a steadfast ally who fought tirelessly to improve access to higher education and many other issues that impact young people,” said USSA Vice President Lindsay McCluskey, a recent graduate of the University of Massachusetts, Amherst.  “I was proud that he represented me in the U.S. Senate, and am deeply saddened by the loss of such an inspiring and dedicated individual.”

Making higher education more accessible was one of Kennedy’s most admirable lifelong goals.  This ideal is reflected in the Student Aid and Fiscal Responsibility Act, the landmark student aid reform bill that he would have worked on after the summer recess.  The bill brings to fruition many policies that the late senator vigorously fought for during his tenure on the education committee.  Opening the college doors for those who cannot afford to pay the skyrocketing cost of a higher education is a noble way to remember Senator Kennedy.

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The United States Student Association, the country’s oldest and largest student-led organization, represents over 4.5 million students at over 400 campuses across the nation.  We work to develop current and future leaders and amplify the student voice at the local, state, and national levels by mobilizing grassroots power to win concrete victories on student issues.

For details or to arrange an interview, contact Jake Stillwell at 202.640.6570 ext.572 or media@usstudents.org

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