California Assembly Majority Leader Ian Calderon from the 57th District has been named by the Association of Independent California Colleges and Universities (AICCU) and Whittier College as a 2017 Champion of Students for his continuous work to support college access for everyone. Calderon was instrumental in ensuring that the 2017-2018 California budget maintain the Cal Grant maximum award level for students attending independent, nonprofit colleges, such as Whittier.
“Majority Leader Calderon has truly been a champion for our students by creating opportunities to make higher education accessible to all students,” said Whittier College President Sharon Herzberger. “His support for the Cal Grant is greatly appreciated due to the importance of this funding to so many students. Many would not be able to attend their top choice school, like Whittier, if it was not for the Cal Grant.”
The award recognized 12 California legislators for their diligent work in halting the $1,000 cut to the Cal Grant award.
“I am honored and humbled to be recognized by the AICCU and Whittier College,” said Calderon. “It is imperative for me to continue to take action and ensure that college students have their voices heard on their path to receive their degrees.”
President of the Whittier student body, Bryceton Scurr ’19, presented Calderon with a plaque at the College’s Late Night Breakfast event, a tradition on campus where faculty and staff serve students the evening before final exams begin.
