Join Higher Heights Youth Empowerment Programs, Inc. for an important forum to advocate for restoring full funding for the Mary Ann Handley Expansion and protecting college affordability in Connecticut.
Higher Heights is a Connecticut-based nonprofit organization dedicated to empowering students and families to access and succeed in postsecondary education. For over two decades, we have supported thousands of students across the state in navigating college access, financial aid, and career pathways—helping them pursue opportunities that lead to long-term success.
We are hosting this forum because college affordability in Connecticut is at risk. The proposed state budget reduces funding for the Mary Ann Handley expansion from $8 million to $3.5 million, limiting access for students who depend on this program to pursue a four-year degree . While the program has successfully made community college tuition-free for many students, there are still significant financial gaps at public universities—leaving students with an average unmet need of over $4,000 and increasing reliance on student loans.
This forum is an opportunity to:
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Raise awareness about the growing affordability crisis
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Center student and family voices
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Advocate for policy solutions that expand access to higher education
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Push for full funding to ensure students can complete their degrees without financial barriers
Date: Tuesday, April 28, 2026
Time: 1:00 PM – 3:00 PM
Location: CT State Legislative Building | Hearing Room 1C
Together, we can ensure that every student in Connecticut has a fair opportunity to pursue higher education.
Show up. Speak out. Support students.
Learn more about our work: www.higherheightsyouth.net