Thank you, Chair Clark, and good afternoon Trustees, Chancellor Garcia, University Presidents, and everyone here today. My name is Tara Al-Rehani and I serve as the President of the Cal State Student Association.

CSSA represents nearly half a million students in the CSU and serves as the official voice of CSU students to the California State Legislature and the CSU Board of Trustees. It is an honor to provide this report on their behalf.

This is my third Board of Trustees meeting serving as CSSA president but as we close out 2025, I am in deep reflection over the safety and security of our CSU community. The political landscape has only continued to challenge us as the year goes on, but the CSU persists. The increasing aggression against higher education institutions for upholding equitable practices, the presence of immigration enforcement and the racially targeted attacks in our communities, remains a threat to the stability and assurance of our students and their families. There is an overwhelming sense of fear, uncertainty, and confusion. However, we are confident that the CSU will continue to do what they can to preserve the greater system and protect against future aggressions. And quite frankly, we must. Still, politics is only one aspect of what defines this moment for our system.

We are reminded of our shared humanity as we mourn the recent loss of members of our CSU community. We send our condolences to the families of Lauren Turner and Destiny Morris, two highly dedicated student athletes at CSU Fullerton who lost their lives this month. Their passing is a reminder to care for one another, to lead with empathy, to be patient, to offer grace in difficult moments, and to create a campus environment where every student feels seen, supported, and valued. In honoring their memory, let us take a moment to recommit ourselves to fostering kindness and compassion throughout the CSU community. This system is strong, and we will endure.

Carrying that compassion with us, we turn to the important conversations that lie ahead.

The strategic enrollment management plan will be discussed tomorrow. I’d like to highlight that as this plan begins to roll out in conjunction with the Student Success Framework and CSU Forward, the center of all of this is our students. Whether they are traditional or non-traditional, we must remember that this work is intended to remove barriers and uplift those coming to our system, from a variety of backgrounds. Our organization knows the commitments being made are a tall ask, and we are grateful, but more importantly, we are also committed to helping this process along, every step of the way.

This plan expands what the student life cycle looks like and discusses equity, access, modernization, and program flexibility. Its importance can not be understated. That being said, increased enrollment substantially helps our universities, and we should acknowledge that investments in vital student services are what will ensure stability in the long term. With the proper strategic considerations, caution, and allocation of funding, our system should be able to both expand on, and preserve what exists. We must be mindful of every step taken to not disrupt the progress and pathways of currently enrolled students. It will be a delicate balance, but entirely possible.

Since the last time this board was convened, CSSA has hosted three plenary meetings. We passed both our policy agenda, and the foundation for our White Paper on Artificial Intelligence.

Our Policy Agenda outlines four priorities:

1. Address the Total Cost of Attendance for CSU Students. Affordability is a cornerstone of the CSU’s mission, and it aims to provide high-quality education to Californians from all backgrounds. Our efforts to maintain affordability will continue to focus on advocating for, and expanding financial aid options, exploring cost-reduction strategies, sustainable transit solutions, and other means of lowering the overall cost for our students. As the student success framework highlights, we must recognize that easy and streamlined access to affordable housing, food pantries, and technology services are integral to a student’s academic success.
2. Ensure Students Have Access to High-Quality Wellness and Mental Health Support Services. Providing and promoting timely, and accessible mental health resources is becoming more attainable than ever. As AI tools continue to advance, our hope is that it will allow our staff to cut down on time-consuming administrative tasks to better focus on the students and the rest of our campus community who come forward seeking support. Advocating for the creation and implementation of 24/7 telehealth services continues to be a priority for our organization. But physical health is just as important as mental health. We continue to discuss how we can expand programs promoting holistic wellness, including fitness, nutrition, and stress management, to create a balanced support system for students.
3. Ensure the Academic Success and Holistic Educational Experience of All CSU Students. To my earlier point, our students, our universities, our cities, and our system are being targeted. But we need to continue to show up, as one unit, to protect and affirm our students, their families, identities, and communities. We will not ignore the political climate and focus only on academic and career success; we can’t. It is both/and. By working together to enhance safety protocols, Know Your Rights campaigns, and services alike, we honor our promise to protect our students, while helping them advance their own lives. That’s why they choose the CSU.
4. Foster Inclusive Engagement for Students to Find Agency in the CSU Community. More specifically, the continued equal partnership and inclusive co-creation between students and the larger system is what empowers students to see themselves not just as participants, but as co-architects of the CSU experience, strengthening trust, belonging, and collective progress across the system. This approach ensures students have a real voice and shared responsibility in building a stronger, more inclusive CSU.

As noted, CSSA also passed the guiding principles for our AI White Paper, titled Improving the Implementation of the CSU Artificial Intelligence Initiative for Students. Developed through the systemwide affairs committee and authored by VP of Systemwide Affairs Karroum. With input from all twenty-three Associated Student Organizations, the paper provides a student-driven evaluation of the CSU’s partnership with OpenAI and the launch of ChatGPT Edu across the system.

At its core, the White Paper emphasizes that equity is as important as access. While we progress toward digital modernization, students have reported inconsistent implementation, limited awareness, and insufficient training that has resulted in varied use across campuses. We look forward to the opportunity to aid our faculty in the establishment of clear, transparent policies to ensure consistent classroom practices around AI use.

Students have also raised concerns regarding academic integrity in the classroom. Citing the lack of unified guidance on ethical use and the growing reliance on unreliable AI-detection tools that have led to false accusations and damaged trust.

Additional recommendations highlighted the ethical and psychological dimensions of AI use. We encourage the CSU to continue to prioritize student well-being, data privacy, and critical-thinking education as AI becomes more deeply integrated into learning environments. The paper concludes by reaffirming that innovation must be accompanied by accountability, transparency, and inclusion. Students across the CSU have made it clear: this technology should enhance, not replace, human connection, integrity, and shared governance. We will be sharing the final draft in the coming weeks.

While the changing political landscape has devastated many of our communities this past year, CSSA has remained resolved in advancing student-centered priorities in basic needs, campus climate and safety, and affordability. I’m pleased to report that two CSSA co‑sponsored bills, SB 271 (Reyes) and SB 98 (Pérez), were signed into law. SB 271 expands support for student parents by integrating childcare services and resources into core basic needs infrastructure across public higher education, while SB 98 establishes clear, timely campus notification protocols when immigration enforcement is present, strengthening safety and trust for immigrant and mixed‑status communities. These victories reflect sustained student advocacy and partnership with legislative leaders, CSU stakeholders, and community allies. Collective action matters and CSSA is willing and able to partner in these efforts to both uplift and preserve our system.

Yesterday, CSSA Chair Aaron Villarreal testified at the Assembly Higher Education Committee’s hearing on ‘The Future of Higher Education and the Role of the Federal Government’ alongside other CSU stakeholders. He emphasized the need to protect access, affordability, and inclusion amid federal actions threatening financial aid, DEI programs, and food assistance, while also noting that uncertainty at the federal level and potential funding reductions place added strain on the CSU’s budget. Chair Villarreal underscored that although California cannot control federal policy, the state must lead in safeguarding funding stability and ensuring every student’s right to learn, feel welcome, and thrive.

Looking forward, CSSA is preparing for when the State Legislature reconvenes in January. We continue to be focused on advancing priorities around student affordability, basic needs, financial aid reform, and stable CSU funding. CSSA is also strengthening our budget advocacy strategy to ensure that students’ voices remain central in state budget deliberations and policy discussions. Through coordinated engagement with campus representatives, system partners, and state leaders, we will continue to champion the needs of all CSU students in the year ahead. It is no secret that the partnership between CSSA and the CSU has led to historic wins in just this last legislative cycle. After seeing what we were able to achieve together, we are excited to build on this momentum and deliver our best on our shared priorities, centering students.

Before I conclude, I want to re-emphasize that these few months have challenged this system and its students in unprecedented ways, and we don’t know if future months will be any easier. But the way out is together. I urge you all to connect with your student leaders, talk to them, share with them, and inform them. We have seen time and time again that when we operate as one unit, we succeed.

Chair Clark, thank you and this concludes my report.

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Thank you and good morning, Chair Clarke, Trustees, Chancellor García, University Presidents, and everyone else here today.

Representing nearly half a million CSU students, the Cal State Student Association (CSSA) serves as the official voice of CSU students to both the California State Legislature and the CSU Board of Trustees. I am humbled and honored to present this report on their behalf today.

Since my last report to this board, CSSA convened for our August Plenary and successfully held our 13th annual CSUnity conference at Cal State Fullerton. A very big thank you to University President Dr. Rochon, ASI President Haneefah Syed, and CSU Fullerton staff for welcoming us and helping us put this amazing conference together. We were also very pleased to welcome Chair Clarke, Vice Chair Arambula, and Trustee Yee-Melichar to our conference. Joined by nearly 170 students and 20 guest presenters who came from all over the state, and from our very own CSU backyard, we are very thankful to those in this room who not only attended, but led a variety of development and informational sessions for our students. Deputy Vice Chancellor Perez, Associate Vice Chancellor Dr. Goward, Assistant Vice Chancellor Kitchell, Assistant Vice Chancellor Murrillo, and Director Tran-Martin, thank you.  Our sessions included discussions about CSU hot topics such as Title IX & Discrimination, Harassment and Retaliation, the CSU Budget, and the Student Success Framework. We also discussed strategies to mobilize, address student homelessness, improvements to basic needs research, and so much more. It was a weekend full of collaboration, brainstorming, and collective action. 

As I’ve mentioned to this body before, we recognize that public higher education is under considerable pressure on multiple fronts, however I’m happy to see that the CSU is doing what it can, where it can. The next few months will be critical as strategic plans across the CSU are nearing their final developmental stages. Later today, you’ll hear the final report for the Year of Engagement: Student Success Framework, and the special report on the CSU Systemwide Strategic Plan in collaboration with SOVA Solutions. I want to highlight that both of these initiatives represent the CSU’s ongoing commitment to continue to make quality education more accessible and affordable. 

Times ahead are tough, frankly, times are tough right now, but at the center of everything, the north star are the students. Our request is that we keep this focus at the heart of our work. While there will always be many important priorities to balance, we hope the implementation of this effort continues to place students first, so we can fulfill our promise to them.

If we do not engage our students or make them feel heard, seen, appreciated, and supported, we risk losing their support when they graduate or they may even lose confidence in further pursuing their education at the CSU. I know this is an outcome that no one wants, but I’ve been fortunate enough to be a part of the process with the CSU/Deloitte Steering Committee from the beginning, and can assure that the presentation you will hear later comes after months of deliberate and intentional discussion around strategy and solutions. It will dive into some hard truths about the student experience, both inside and outside of the classroom. They are truths that we must acknowledge. Ahead of that presentation, I would like to reaffirm a few points: students face immense financial barriers, we face transportation and housing challenges, there are gaps in intentional and personalized advising, and a disparity in access to holistic support services. While the system and individual universities have undoubtedly been trying to combat these issues, and we are grateful for these efforts, I would like to underscore the importance of addressing these issues at the systemwide level; and I commend the tireless work and consideration from all the steering committee members and CSU partners on these initiatives. I had re-stated these more obvious issues because the Student Success Framework, the CSU strategic plan, and the Strategic Enrollment Management Plan all tackle these issues in their own relevant ways. A prime example is the strategy details outlined in the Student Success Framework found within today’s agenda (page 54). The strategies look at the real, holistic student experience, starting with the cost of attendance, then advising, through the classroom, and up until they have been set up with a professional network. It outlines the shortfalls and clearly states the systemwide actions that need to be taken. 

Having said that, once these plans take effect, it is crucial that our implementation process remains student-centered, and we must continue to create pathways to streamline efficiency and systemwide improvements. Tough decisions will have to be made at future meetings, which is why it is also important to recognize that the associated costs of these initiatives must be reflected and adequately supported, in order to sustain true equity-focused practices. By committing the necessary resources, we affirm that student success remains at the heart of every decision we make.

While CSSA’s Policy Agenda is still undergoing revisions for this year, I can confidently say that our top priorities continue to be focused on attaining an affordable total cost of attendance in the CSU, enhancing shared governance, and equitable access to education. I am also confident that these goals will continue to be represented in our final draft, which I will share during a future report, once approved by CSSA’s board. I think it is crucial to note that preliminary feedback from our governing members also expressed significant interest in advocating against recent immigration-related attacks.

I must acknowledge the continued fear and anxiety that our local communities are presently facing from immigration enforcement. Immigration threats from our federal government have not ceased, which is the very grim, very real, and very unfortunate truth. Nevertheless, no student should be targeted for coming from an undocumented, mixed-status, or international background while simply pursuing their education. I understand that this sentiment is shared amongst many in this room, therefore I urge our system to continue to discuss and consider the realm of possibility for what can be done to aid our communities during this time. Our students need to depend on us. 

In the spirit of supporting our students’ safety on campus, I’m pleased to say that Senate Bill (SB) 98, authored by Senator Pérez, currently sits on the Governor’s desk for a signature. SB 98 would require school safety plans to include procedures for notifying parents, guardians, students, and staff when immigration enforcement is confirmed on school grounds. CSSA Chair Villarreal was able to join Senator Pérez, the State Superintendent for Public Instruction Tony Thurmond, Assemblymembers Muratsuchi and Ortega, as well as other stakeholders and statewide student organizations to speak to the importance of this legislation just last week at a joint press conference. 

Know that CSSA will continue to advocate for legislation that advances equity, affordability, and student success.

Additionally, one of CSSA’s supported bills, Assembly Bill 313, authored by Assemblymember Ortega, was already signed into law. This bill will ensure that students aren’t penalized when FAFSA delays occur by allowing automatic extensions to financial aid deadlines.

Currently, there are two other CSSA-priority bills moving through the legislative process, SB 271, by Senator Reyes and co-sponsored by CSSA, which would expand “basic needs” services to explicitly include childcare resources and support, including financial assistance for student parents.

As well as SB 761, by Senator Ashby, which would simplify student eligibility for CalFresh by recognizing all public higher education programs as state-approved employability programs by July 2026.

Governor Newsom’s signature on these bills will be critical. By signing them into law, he has the opportunity to directly support California students by improving access to food, childcare, safety, and educational equity.

I’m happy to add that some of the upcoming topics of discussion for our organization will include the AI integration, the CSU Strategic Plan, and the Strategic Enrollment Management Plan. Most recently, CSSA Vice President of Systemwide Affairs Katie Karroum gave testimony at the Artificial Intelligence-Empowered Initiative hearing alongside our CSU partners. I will also note CSSA’s enthusiastic involvement in the various steering committees and strategic planning efforts held by the CSU. CSSA appreciates everyone who has offered to bring these matters directly to our student leaders, and I look forward to our continued collaboration with the CSU and all of its stakeholders as we engage in these discussions. I will be sharing our board’s perspectives across these different areas in a future report.

Before I close out, a sincere congratulations to all the student awardees who will be recognized later, I look forward to chatting with you all. 

Chair Clarke, thank you for the time, we sincerely appreciate all of you for listening to the voices of our students with care. This concludes my report.

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Thank you and good morning, Chair Clark, Trustees, Chancellor Garcia, University Presidents, and everyone else present today. I would first like to take a moment to congratulate our newest student trustee, Carson Fajardo. It has been wonderful to work with Carson last year, and I am truly so excited for his term. Congratulations!

For those I have not yet had the pleasure of meeting, my name is Tara Al-Rehani and I am both humbled and honored to have been elected as the President of the California State Student Association (or CSSA) for the 2025-2026 academic year. Representing nearly half a million CSU students, the CSSA serves as the official voice of CSU students to both the California State Legislature and the CSU Board of Trustees. I’m honored to present this report on their behalf.

I am a first-generation Iraqi-American college student entering my fourth-year at San Jose State University, pursuing my B.A. in Political Science with a minor in Economics, and on track to graduate in the Spring. This meeting marks the early days of my second term with CSSA, as I previously served as the Vice President of Systemwide Affairs. My journey as a student representative began in my first year at SJSU where I joined the Associated Students’ Lobby Corps  and since then, I have been a passionate advocate for enhancing the student experience and ensuring our CSU students have access to a safe, affordable, and equitable education.

I come before you all today, also joined by my fellow CSSA executive officers. Please allow me to introduce you all to: 

• Katie Karroum, serving as CSSA Vice President of Systemwide Affairs. Katie will be joining me at future meetings, and attends CSU Northridge, pursuing her BA in Communication Studies, also on track to graduate in the spring. Prior to joining the CSSA executive team, Katie served as CSUN’s Associated Students Senator and most recently completed her term as Associated Students President.
• Aaron Villarreal, serving as CSSA Chair. Aaron has earned a B.S. in Accounting with a concentration in Financial Planning at CSU Monterey Bay, and will continue his education pursuing a Master’s of Finance graduate degree at Sacramento State University. Prior to coming to CSSA, he served as the Associated Students President at CSUMB. 
• Derrick Herrera serving as CSSA Vice President of Legislative Affairs. Earning three degrees at San Diego State University in American Indian Studies, Political Science, and International Security, he is now pursuing a master’s in Public Administration at SDSU. Previously, he served as SDSU’s Associated Students Vice President of External Relations.
• Finally,  Artur, serving as CSSA Vice President of Finance. Artur is a third-year undergraduate student at San Jose State University pursing a B.S. in Corporate Accounting and Finance. Before joining CSSA, Artur served as the Chief Financial Officer for two statewide nonprofit service organizations. 

Please join me in congratulating these four inspiring leaders who embody the excellence of the CSU!

A lot has happened since the start of my Presidential term in June, and we know that we face a difficult year ahead. From our local communities being raided, to a variety of strategic attacks and cuts to higher education, but rest assured my executive team, myself, and CSSA stand strong in the fight to preserve and protect the right to higher education. That being said, we are grateful that a majority of the core funding for the CSU has been preserved for the 25/26 academic year, and that nearly $56.5 million has been allocated to support programs for Undocumented, Native American, and Foster Youth students. However, we must acknowledge the absolute need for the deferred funding from the compact agreements to be sustained over the long term. This will be critical to ensure our system can successfully keep up with the increasing costs that are associated with access, enrollment, academic, and non-academic programs and services. Additionally, Cal Grant Reform has yet to be fully funded and our system still faces a $122 million reduction. While these truths weigh heavily on the shoulders of our system, the commitment of our association to continue collaborating with all of our partners, to secure this funding in future years, remains steadfast. 

The smaller successes are not to be overlooked and they serve as a source of hope during these times. They are a direct result of the strategic, dynamic, and joint advocacy efforts between CSSA, our systemwide partners, and the Chancellor’s Office. My confidence in our ability to ensure the CSU’s prosperity and financial security has only been strengthened as CSSA welcomed our 2025 – 2026 Board of Directors this past weekend. So let me be the first to say that our incoming student leaders are bold, eager, and devoted to protecting public higher education. They shared their inspirational stories about how they got to the CSU and the amazing things the CSU has afforded them. For some, it was having access to a food pantry and professional clothing that allowed them to land their dream internship. For others, it was the mental health counseling which helped them finally feel stable in their academic journey. For those like me, it was the university’s promise program that gave us a second chance and a direct pathway to achieving our higher education goals. For all, the CSU is a beacon of hope, and an avenue for breaking cycles and building futures. It’s no secret that CSU students are among the most determined and strong-willed in the country. I know that in collaboration with everyone in this room, we will honor their resilience by investing in their future and ensuring they have the resources, support, and opportunities they deserve to thrive.

Last year, our board passed and upheld four main priorities through our policy agenda. While our new board will soon be working on revisions, I would like to share the priorities from last year that we are still actively carrying out, until a new policy agenda is approved. Priority number one is Addressing the Total Cost of Attendance for CSU Students by maintaining access to high-quality student support services that aid in a student’s ability to access food, housing, and provide solutions to their affordability concerns. Our second priority is to Ensure Students Have Access to High Quality Wellness and Mental Health Support Services. It’s important to highlight the influential impact that these services have on the well-being of our students. In turn, it gives them the confidence and security they need to stay on track and committed to their education. Priority number three is to Ensure Academic Success and a Holistic Educational Experience for all CSU Students. Now more than ever, is the time to push back against the unjust attacks on higher education from our nation’s administration. Our students deserve an educational experience that makes them feel seen, heard, and taken care of regardless of their immigration status, gender identity, sexual orientation, race, and ethnicity. And finally, our fourth priority is to Foster Inclusive Engagement for Students to Find Agency in the CSU Community. The inclusion of students in CSU policy-making not only strengthens their ability to advocate, but also their trust in the institution. Developing a sense of ownership creates a bond that will undoubtedly be paid back to the CSU through lifelong engagement, advocacy, and a deep commitment to the institution and system’s success. I look forward to sharing the finalized version of our policy agenda with you all at a future meeting.

As my predecessor promised this board last year, transparency and communication are of the utmost importance to the success and health of our system. CSSA will continue its commitment to fostering transparent and constructive dialogue with this body, ensuring that student voices remain central to CSU decision-making. 

Before I close, I would like to emphasize the ever-growing collaboration between Chancellor Garcia and the Cal State Student Association. As I have previously stated, it is evident that attacks on our education and on our students from historically marginalized communities will persist, however, we are grateful to have a champion in Chancellor Garcia who will walk alongside us in this fight. Together, we are building a stronger, more unified CSU—one that listens to students, centers equity, and takes bold steps to meet the challenges of today and tomorrow

To conclude, I have to acknowledge the reason I am able to be here today speaking on behalf of our CSU students. San José State University, through its commitment to students like me, and the visionary leadership of President Cynthia Teniente-Matson, has shown our local and campus community opportunities that I never believed could be within reach. Additionally, if not for the determination and strength that it took my parents to leave their home country and come here, I would not know stability. If not for the care and patience that my grandmother gave me growing up, I would not know empathy. If not for the confidence that my older sister instilled in me, I would not know bravery. I say this because I, like many of our CSU students, are built up by our communities, and just as easily torn down. When our communities are attacked, so are we. From our family, friends, and loved ones – we are all impacted. Our existence is political, especially if you’re an immigrant, a person of color, first-generation, receive government aid, or beyond. But the CSU has always been, and should continue to be a safe haven for our historically marginalized students to find sanctuary, obtain their degrees, and live prosperous lives. 

Chair Clark, thank you. This concludes my report, and on behalf of CSSA, we’re ready to get to work!

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The reality of the student housing crisis and the CSSA’s call to action

April 4, 2025

Understanding and Improving Affordable Housing Accommodations for CSU Students 

The California State Student Association (CSSA) is a student-led organization committed to prioritizing student needs while engaging in higher education policy making at the systemwide, state, and federal levels. Elements of the following white paper have been compiled from the Student-Centered Affordable Housing in California (SCAHC) report completed by representatives of the Center for Equitable Higher Education, the CSSA, the UCSA, and the SSCCC as part of an Affordable Housing working group from the 2023-2024 academic year. The working group concluded that there are five “learnings” that are crucial to understanding and improving affordable housing accommodations for students. Other details and portions of the report are recommendations discussed by CSSA’s 2024-2025 Systemwide Affairs Committee. The Systemwide Affairs Committee added onto these “learnings”, some of which include an actionable recommendation. This white paper is the CSSA’s interpretation of the report and committee discussion. As a key stakeholder and collaborator of the CSSA, we urge the Chancellor’s Office to consider our recommendations when deliberating affordable housing initiatives and the current state of housing needs across the entire CSU System. 

 

• Improved Reporting Mechanisms

1. 1. There are struggles with gathering and understanding data about student needs concerning affordable housing, from all three California systems of higher education. However, the state of California has funded two new programs (HESHG and RLP, discussed below) that are meant to provide new and affordable housing to students based on demonstrated need, accurate measurement, and reporting. These programs have been brought online in the last five years and set clear expectations and incentives for more efficient data collection processes. 
   2. During conversations about these programs, there was a concern that low-income or housing-insecure students refrain from applying for campus-supported housing due to financial constraints. These individuals are often excluded from the metrics campuses use to assess the demand for new housing, and may lead to non-representative or skewed data.
   3. Another concern was raised about there being a lack of standardization across HESHG and RLP. Students at different campuses are subjected to inconsistent metrics used to determine their need for campus-supported affordable housing options. This lack of standardization includes but is not limited to: 
      1. Waitlists for on-campus housing and tracking how many students did not get placed into a unit. 
      2. Distinct enrollment target guidelines from the state legislature and the Governor within the budget.
      3. Consistent studies and research on the market demand for any proposed buildings to ensure campuses can build and set reasonable and equitable rent prices. 
   4. Higher Education Student Housing Grant Program (HESHG): This 2021 state-initiated program requires that low-income students are prioritized for any and all of the housing units built through this program’s state funding. However, there is no mention of these units needing to be constructed on-campus. This program is administered using the following needs-based metrics:
      1. Occupancy and waitlists 
      2. Demonstrating the number of “low-income” students that may need housing in the proposed dormitory building.
   5. California Student Housing Revolving Loan Program (RLP): Provides low-interest loans to California higher education institutions to develop affordable student housing projects. By emphasizing loans instead of grants, the program aims to maximize funding efficiency, enabling campuses to construct more housing with reduced reliance on state resources. This initiative prioritizes long-term financial sustainability and addresses student housing shortages.
   6. Actionable Recommendations: 
      1. Advocate for improved transparency about the need for affordable housing at the institutional level and further student involvement in decisions made concerning the construction of new, affordable student housing developments.
      2. Require all campuses to track and publicly report waitlist numbers, unmet housing demand, and low-income student applications for housing.
      3. Develop a broader set of indicators beyond waitlists to capture the true need, including surveys of housing-insecure students who do not apply due to financial concerns.

 

• Mandatory Meal Plans and Access to Kitchen Facilities

1. 1. Mandatory meal plans pose an additional financial burden for students who may not be able to afford them. It is important to evaluate whether they should be required, and determine the most appropriate pricing and structure for different meal plan options. Meal plans should be structured to realistically meet students needs and not be utilized as a source of excess revenue generation. 
   2. Actionable Recommendations:
      1. All CSU campuses should eliminate mandatory meal plans for low-income students or provide opt-out options for those who demonstrate financial hardship.
      2. CSU’s should implement increased tiered and flexible meal plan structures that allow students to choose affordable options that align with their needs and are available when students need them. 
      3. CSU’s should ensure accessible communal kitchens and meal-prepping resources in on-campus housing to support food security without forcing students into costly meal plans. 
      4. Regular assessments of meal plan affordability and student needs should be conducted to ensure pricing remains equitable and does not create an undue financial burden.

 

• Prioritized Student Housing Accommodations

1. 1. Currently, there is no clear system-wide guidance or legislation that dictates or suggests how California state higher education institutions should prioritize students for available lower-cost on-campus housing opportunities.
      1. Only housing funded through HESG has this as a criterion. 
   2. Student testimonial:
      1. Page 4: “There are literally students who have to decline their admission because they’ve been on the waitlist way too long and they have to wait an entire year to go to another CSU. Now they’re graduating late and so I would argue that’s not very good for the GI-25.” – CSSA Student Leader.
   3. Actionable Recommendations:
      1. Priority access to on-campus housing should be given to students with demonstrated need, especially Californians who come from further distances or who are low-income. These students should have priority in lottery systems or any selection process that is used for on-campus housing accommodations.
      2. At the systemwide level, students who cannot afford housing on campus should be given an exception to find more affordable accommodations throughout their academic tenure.
      3. Substantial equitable considerations must be given when deciding what “low-income” means. While discussing affordability, our institutions must understand that different students have unique interpretations of what is and is not affordable. We should not be setting limiting thresholds without sufficient evidence to determine whether or not students can be exempt or given more financially accessible housing options.

1. The CSSA recognizes that students selected to receive priority in the affordable housing selection process are decisions made at the campus level. There appears to be a lack of standardization that leaves a lot of room for variation, leading to greater inequity in student outcomes. We must be conscious of this and work towards streamlining a more efficient and clear process regarding how housing units are safely built, assigned, and monitored. 

1. Lower Unit Requirements for Students in Housing Units
   1. Currently, HESHG requires students to be enrolled in a minimum of 12 semester units to qualify to live in housing units built through the program. 
   2. We recognize that these programs are intended to cater to low-income and historically marginalized students. Acknowledging that, an increased course load of 12 units could create a barrier to academic success for those students, especially with rising tuition and fee costs working in lock step with an already high cost of living throughout our state.
   3. Actionable Recommendation: 
      1. Institutions using publicly funded affordable housing grants and initiatives similar to HESHG should allow all students to enroll in 6-semester units, instead of 12-semester units, to be eligible for such programs.

1. 1. Students with Dependents
      1. Students with dependents have few options when it comes to on-campus and other affordable housing units, and are more likely to experience housing insecurity and homelessness. 

• Actionable recommendations:

1. 1. 1. Affordable housing options should be more accommodating and accessible to student caregivers or students with dependents, given their needs.
      2. Exploring opportunities to convert available housing units to more affordable options and expand access for students with dependents.
      3. Emergency housing programs nestled under basic needs services across the system, should also be able to accommodate student parents when it comes to their services, such as emergency housing. 
      4. Increase fiscal and administrative support for programs that help these students, rather than relying on otherwise limited financial aid programs to support them. There must also be an effort to reallocate and secure funding for rapid rehousing programs.

1. 1. Unrealistic Affordability Thresholds and Personalized Rent Based on Income 
      1. The thresholds of programs like HESHG and RLP aren’t truly affordable to students since they view a student’s financial situation and equate the loans they have with how much money is at their disposal.
      2. Additionally, without clear affordability standards (such as capping rent as a percentage of student income), the housing developed through these programs may still fail to meet the needs of the most financially vulnerable students.
      3. Students experiencing housing insecurity might apply for an emergency grant through basic needs services and get denied if they have loans available in their account, a critical overestimation of financial means.
         1. By viewing student loans as a student’s “income,” the HESHG and RLP programs, or even Basic Needs programs on CSU campuses, are further limiting students in already tight financial circumstances, to further reliance on those loans. 
      4. Personalized rent based on income is a common and effective affordable housing practice. Under these regimes, a low-income household does not need to pay more than 30% of their income on rent. When this occurs, the government will pay the difference between the rent paid and the market rate value of the housing to the landlord.

• Actionable Recommendations:

1. 1. 1. Establish clear and realistic affordability thresholds by capping student housing costs at no more than 30% of a student’s actual income (excluding loans).
      2. Require HESHG- and RLP-funded housing projects to use income-based rent models rather than assuming student loans as disposable income.
      3. Prohibit the consideration of student loans as “available income” when assessing eligibility for emergency housing grants or basic needs assistance.
      4. Launch a pilot program at select CSU campuses to test an income-based rent structure, where rent is scaled to student earnings and affordability guidelines.

The CSSA recognizes that CSU students come from diverse socio-economic backgrounds and have unique housing needs throughout their academic journeys. Beyond the recommendations outlined above, CSSA emphasizes the importance of establishing equitable definitions of housing affordability, ensuring student involvement in campus-level decision-making, and promoting fair and transparent housing assignment processes. While much of the responsibility for affordable housing falls on state-funded programs like HESHG and RLP, we also call on the CSU system to take immediate action in removing barriers to current on-campus housing. This includes reforming the allocation process for housing, revising how emergency grants are awarded, and updating the criteria for students to qualify for emergency housing assistance. To sustain and support students, CSU housing programs must be both effective and accessible. CSSA will continue to monitor legislative and programmatic developments related to HESHG, RLP, and other housing initiatives, urging the State Legislature and CSU leadership to take a proactive role in advancing safe and affordable housing solutions across the CSU system.

Sincerely, 

Tara Al-Rehani

Vice President of Systemwide Affairs

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CSSA President Esera’s Report to the Board of Trustees

March 25, 2025

Thank you, Chair Clark, and good morning Trustees, Chancellor Garcia, University Presidents, and everyone here today. My name is Iese Esera, and I serve as the President of the Cal State Student Association (CSSA). CSSA represents nearly half a million students across the California State University system and serves as the official voice of CSU students to the California State Legislature and the Board of Trustees. It is an honor to present this report on their behalf.

Since my last update, CSSA convened for two plenary meetings. We held a virtual meeting in February, followed by our March meeting hosted in person by Sacramento State University. On behalf of CSSA, I would like to extend our sincerest gratitude to President Wood, Associated Students, and the Harper Alumni Center staff for their warm hospitality and support. These plenaries were filled with robust and passionate discussions as our Board engaged in meaningful dialogue on a range of issues impacting CSU students.

At both plenary sessions, CSSA took strong positions on legislation focused on student rights, financial aid transparency, and essential campus resources. Our Board voted to co-sponsor several bills, including SB 98 (Pérez), which strengthens protections for undocumented students, faculty, and staff; SB 271 (Reyes), which expands childcare services for student parents; SB 323 (Pérez), which broadens access to financial aid for Dream Act applicants; and AB 98, which we will share more about as it develops. Additionally, CSSA voted to support SB 416 (Pérez) to standardize financial aid letters; SB 761 (Ashby) to increase access to CalFresh; AB 95 (Fong) to restore a higher education coordinating body; AB 850 (Pacheco) to improve transparency in institutional debt; and AB 313, which we are continuing to track closely. These legislative efforts reflect our ongoing commitment to equity, affordability, and student success in the CSU.

CSSA also passed a resolution calling for the creation of a systemwide CSU Undocumented Student Advisory Council and a Framework for Comprehensive Support. This resolution urges the CSU to establish a permanent advisory council that provides guidance on policies and programs serving undocumented students. It also calls for expanded scholarship opportunities, career and legal services, alternative food security programs, and the establishment of a CSU-wide programming and events to foster advocacy, awareness, and collaboration across the system.

In addition to our policy work, CSSA is close to finalizing our Affordable Student Housing White Paper, which will be released publicly by Thursday, March 27. The paper outlines CSSA’s recommendations for improving housing affordability across the CSU, including better data collection, transparent prioritization of low-income students for on-campus housing, more flexible and inclusive meal plans, and the exploration of income-based rent models. We urge the Chancellor’s Office and our partners in the Legislature to implement these reforms and ensure that housing across the CSU is equitable, accessible, and financially sustainable. Additionally, CSSA is excited to inform this body that three student trustee nominees have been sent to the Governors office for  appointment. Every year CSSA is honored to serve as the steward of such an important process, and we are grateful to all the student applicants. 

Our conversations are also continuing on other student-centered priorities such as affordable learning solutions, ensuring comprehensive Title IX implementation, and recognizing the essential role that Survivor Advocates play on every CSU campus. These issues remain top of mind for our student leaders, and we will continue working closely with systemwide partners to advance this work.

Two weeks ago, CSSA proudly hosted the 30th Annual California Higher Education Student Summit (CHESS), bringing together student leaders from every CSU campus for a weekend of leadership development and policy training. Our summit concluded with a successful Advocacy Day at the State Capitol, where we met with state legislators and the Governor’s Office to advocate for legislation and the CSU’s budget priorities. CHESS reaffirmed our shared belief in the power of student voice and the importance of investing in policies that ensure affordability, access, and success for all CSU students.

I am so proud of our students. And everyone here should be too! Students have been doing our part to urge the state to fund the CSU. CSSA has taken a historic approach to opposing the Governor’s proposed 8% cut to the CSU budget—a total reduction of nearly $400 million. Over 250 students, representing every CSU campus—from San Diego State to Cal Poly Humboldt, a span of more than 850 miles—came together in Sacramento to meet with legislators and advocate for the future of our state and our nation. Their presence and their passion made it clear: CSU students are not only the next generation of leaders—we are leading right now.

The moment we find ourselves in calls for unity—not just in word, but in spirit and action—more than ever before. In a time of uncertainty and challenge, the CSSA is deeply grateful for Chancellor Garcia’s unwavering commitment to shared governance and for embracing the transformative power of student voice. When students are not only heard, but truly valued in shaping outcomes, we create something extraordinary: a CSU that doesn’t just respond to change, but leads it—with courage, with compassion, and with a collective vision for a brighter future.

Chair Clark, this concludes my report and I am happy to answer any questions.

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CSSA President Esera’s report to the CSU Board of Trustees

January 28, 2025

Thank you, Chair Clark, and good morning Trustees, Chancellor Garcia, University Presidents, and everyone here today. My name is Iese Esera and I serve as the President of the Cal State Student Association. CSSA represents nearly half a million students in the CSU and serves as the official voice of CSU students to the California State Legislature and the CSU Board of Trustees. It is an honor to provide this report on their behalf. 

First, I would like to highlight a few things occurring across our state that inevitably affect students as a whole, and the communities we’re a part of. Our thoughts go out to all those affected by the wildfires in Los Angeles. If you are willing and able to volunteer or donate to any mutual aid networks we highly encourage you to do so. The wildfires signify  the importance of community organizing during times of crisis like these. We are hopeful those affected will obtain the assistance they need to rebuild and to feel at home once again in communities that mean so much to so many of us. 

It is also important to acknowledge the fear that many of our Undocumented and DACA students and their families may be feeling at this time during this new administration and the many executive orders that have already been signed that directly target their livelihood and sense of belonging in this country. CSSA stands in solidarity with the undocumented community and I have shifted my executive team’s priorities to ensure we are doing our part to share the necessary information and resources to support our students. It is important for all of our Undocumented and DACA students to know  they belong and can succeed on our CSU campuses and within this country.

This past weekend CSSA convened its first plenary of 2025 at my home campus, San Francisco State University. On behalf of CSSA, I extend my gratitude to ASI and University President Mahoney for helping CSSA kick off the new year in such a momentous way. 

We had robust discussions about affordable housing, textbooks and student success. I want to thank DVC Perez for the continued commitment to keep CSSA included and involved in the GI 2025 Year of Engagement. The Legislative Affairs committee lent a warm welcome to AVC of Federal Relations, Jeff Cullen, and  took co-sponsor positions on two critical pieces of legislation that aim to address the financial challenges facing students in California’s higher education systems. These bills—focused on Cost of Attendance and Student Affordable Housing—represent meaningful steps toward creating a more equitable and accessible educational environment for all students.  These bills have not been introduced yet but we will be sure to keep you informed as they move forward. 

Advocacy on pieces of legislation are vital to the success of students in the CSU. However, what is equally as vital to students’ success and well-being is a fully funded CSU. 

Governor Newsom’s January proposal included a nearly 8% cut to the CSU’s operating budget and a deferral of the agreed upon 5% Compact budget increase until 2027. These budget cuts go beyond financial figures; they impact the future of California and the commitment we’ve made to our students.

The California State University system is the largest public university system in the United States, serving nearly 460,000 students. When we talk about budget cuts, we are not talking about abstract numbers or faceless entities. We are talking about real people. Our students come from diverse backgrounds, and many rely on the affordability and accessibility that the CSU offers. They represent a true cross-section of our society—students from rural communities, working families, first-generation college students, and individuals who dream of bettering their lives through higher education. Students are not merely the leaders of tomorrow. We are the leaders of today—already shaping the innovations, ideas, and solutions that will move ALL of us forward. 

Even if the state’s budget must be adjusted, it should not be at the expense of the students. Let us not turn our backs on them. Let us not make the mistake of short-sighted budget cuts that will have long-term consequences. Instead, let us reaffirm our commitment to providing the resources necessary for all students to succeed.

So, let me be clear: students should not bear the cost of the budget crisis. If the state believes that the innocent students of the CSU will not be severely and negatively impacted by a cut of this magnitude, they are sadly mistaken. We must find another way. If you are listening to me now, please reach out to your legislator and fight for the students of the CSU. The future of California and the future of our nation depend on it. 

Lastly, my heart also goes out to the students of Sonoma State. CSSA has heard devastating reports from students who have completely lost faith in their institution and the promise of prosperous academic and athletic journeys. We recognize that the CSU must be sympathetic to the system’s budget crisis, but students, as the largest stakeholder group in the system – require that our leaders be empathetic in their decision making. This means that when campus leaders make major decisions that will impact students, faculty and staff,  they uphold the principles of shared governance to more than just box to check off your list. And at the very least, you must check that box. It is possible to protect the integrity of your decision-making processes while also cultivating a culture of information sharing and transparency. 

​​Overall, I urge two calls to action today. First, I call on our leaders here to commit to ensuring that your campus communities are afforded the dignity and opportunities they rightfully deserve, through trust and collaboration. Second, I call on the Governor and Legislature to invest in the CSU system and fully fund the future of our great state.

Like many, I am proud to be a product of the CSU. And I am honored to be a leader in the CSU. But frankly, the faith of our students is being tested every day on ALL fronts.. Our students are the future of the state, and of this nation. And for generations our students have been foundational contributors to thriving economies AND we are the blueprint of what one day will be a just society. 

CSSA is immensely aware of the gravity of the situation we all find ourselves in and we are so privileged to serve as the voice for the brave and promising students of the CSU. We will continue to work in good faith with the Chancellor’s office and this governing body to hold true to the mission of the CSU. 

Chair Clark, with love and compassion for our shared values, this concludes my report and I am happy to answer any questions. 

Thank you.

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