Stony Brook University Leadership joins SUNY Chancellor in Washington, DC to Advocate for Research Funding

Stony Brook University’s (SBU) Vice President for Research Kevin Gardner and Asstistant Vice President for Federal Relations Lauren Brookmeyer joined the State University of New York (SUNY) Chancellor John B. King, Jr. and University at Buffalo government relations on Capitol Hill to advocate for increased federal funding for science research and student financial aid.

During the DC visit, Gardner and Brookmeyer met with Rep. Nick LaLota, Rep. Andrew Garbarino, Rep. Tim Kennedy, Rep. Nick Langworthy, House Minority Leader Hakeem Jefferies’ Ed Policy Advisor Tonia Wu, and senior staff of the Senate Health, Education, Labor, and Pensions Committee.

“In order to remain competitive on the global stage, we must significantly increase funding for scientific research. Quantum technology and artificial intelligence are at the forefront of this race, and the United States cannot afford to fall behind,” said Gardner. “These fields are the foundation of next-generation innovation. By investing more in cutting-edge research, we empower our scientists and engineers to lead the world in breakthroughs that will shape economies, national security, and the way we live.”

In addition to advocating for research, the SUNY team urged Congress to support robust funding for critical student financial aid programs including Pell Grants. In New York, approximately 370,000 students receive Pell Grants. Over one-third of SUNY students are Pell eligible.

SBU’s Office for Federal Relations based in Washington, DC assisted SUNY with the coordination of these meetings and works closely with Chancellor King, the New York congressional delegation, and congressional committee staff to advance the federal priorities of SBU.