On April 23rd, student fellows supported by TX PACE, EdTrust, Breakthrough Central Texas, Young Invincibles, Every Texan, and IDRA gathered in Austin, TX for the Student Advocacy in Action Convening
May 16, 2025 by Andrea Thurston 
On April 23rd, student fellows supported by TX PACE, EdTrust in Texas, Breaking Through Central Texas, Young Invincibles, Every Texan, and IDRA gathered in Austin, TX, for the Student Advocacy in Action Convening. This two-day event followed a February convening that introduced more than 40 student advocates to the state legislative process and the key issues impacting higher education affordability, access, and success. Building on interest, momentum, and consequential higher education policy policies, this convening equipped students with real-time legislative updates and advocacy skills they could utilize to influence the policymaking process directly.
The Student Advocacy in Action Convening kicked off with in-depth legislative updates, showcasing real-time insights into the people and policies shaping higher education access and success in Texas. Students asked powerful questions to better understand the intent and potential impact of proposed legislation related to need-based financial aid, student support resources, and governance of higher ed institutions. They also participated in messaging trainings focused on storytelling, testimony development, and leveraging media to build awareness and mobilize. With guidance from Ameshia Cross, EdTrust communications director, they drafted talking points and learned how to frame their lived experiences in ways that resonate with lawmakers, the press, and the public.
The second day began with mock legislative visits — an interactive exercise that allowed students to focus on their priority issues, rehearse their advocacy messages, receive feedback, and refine their approach before stepping into legislative offices. With confidence and knowing what to expect, students took to the Capitol and conducted 15 office visits with members of the Senate Education K-16 and House Higher Education Committees. Throughout the day, students shared the realities of their postsecondary experiences while actively listening for opportunities to build consensus for policy solutions to improve affordability, access, equal opportunity, and completion.
Beyond messaging and meetings, students continued to build relationships with each other. Across campuses, regions, and backgrounds, students connected around their shared commitment to put students at the center of the decisions that ultimately impact them and their peers. One student fellow shared, “This experience showed me that I have the right to be here. And that when we speak together, we can shift the conversation.”
This is just one step in ensuring space for student experiences and voices to guide higher education policy. We are proud of their leadership and excited to continue supporting their efforts through the remainder of the legislative session and beyond.
