Eastern Connecticut State University hosted a legislative breakfast on Feb. 20, advocating for increased state funding as lawmakers work to finalize Connecticut’s upcoming two-year budget. The ongoing legislative session, which spans five months, will conclude on June 3, with the new budget taking effect on July 1, marking the start of the 2026 fiscal year. 

Connecticut’s public higher education institutions are preparing for a significant funding shortfall as federal pandemic relief from the American Rescue Plan Act (ARPA) phases out over the next two years — $300 million in FY 2026 and $278 million in FY 2027. This reduction will impact operating funds for Eastern, the Connecticut State Colleges and Universities (CSCU) system, the University of Connecticut, and UConn Health. 

To bridge the funding gap, higher education leaders are seeking increased state appropriations to avoid tuition hikes or program cuts. State Representative Greg Haddad noted that the legislature is working to “correct” the governor’s proposed budget by allocating additional funds for higher education. 

“The constitution requires us to have an excellent post-secondary system,” Haddad said. “We take that requirement seriously. … Right now my colleagues in the general assembly are trying to decide the appropriate level of support.”

Eastern President Karim Ismaili underscored the university’s significant role in Connecticut’s economy, noting that 92% of Eastern students hail from the state and 86% of alumni remain in Connecticut after graduation to build careers, raise families, and contribute to the local economy. 

While Ismaili praised Eastern’s scenic campus and strong academic programs, he emphasized one of the primary reasons students choose the university: “It’s affordable.” 

Several Eastern students shared their experiences, illustrating the university’s impact on their lives and futures. CSCU Chancellor Terrence Cheng highlighted their stories, stating, “They’re the reason we do what we do. As a system, we’re striving to be stronger and more efficient … without placing the burden on our students.” 

Olivia Gardner ’24, originally from Rhode Island, came to Eastern for its smaller campus experience. After earning her English degree last year, she enrolled in the university’s secondary education master’s program. As a student leader with the Center for Community Engagement, she emphasized the university’s close-knit atmosphere. 

“Through volunteering, I learned that Eastern isn’t just a school — it’s a community. I couldn’t be happier with my decision to attend. Eastern has become my home.” 

Senior psychology major Sadie Blackwell, a student-athlete, resident assistant, and student orientation counselor, echoed similar sentiments. “I’ve always been drawn to roles where I can make an impact, and Eastern has allowed me to do just that. The reason people stay and graduate is because of the community.” 

Blackwell, who aspires to be a mental health counselor, added, “Eastern has given me the tools, experiences, and connections to grow.” 

Senior history major Emma McCormack, who transferred from CT State Community College Manchester, highlighted the mentorship she received from Professor Tom Balcerski, which helped her secure conference presentations and acceptance into American University’s graduate program in international affairs and foreign policy. 

“Eastern’s liberal arts education isn’t just about academic exploration — it’s about preparing for a complex world,” McCormack said. 

Senior psychology major Miles Lovell, a lifelong Willimantic resident with several family members who attended Eastern, described how the university has shaped him. “Eastern has been a part of my life for as long as I can remember.” 

He’s found many opportunities through his job with the Office of Equity and Diversity and says the principles of the office permeate the university. “It’s not just a mission statement. … Eastern has shaped who I am.”

When asked how Eastern prepared them, students pointed to the university’s academic flexibility, diverse extracurricular opportunities, on-campus jobs, and close faculty relationships. Some credited study abroad programs and community engagement with personal growth, while others cited theater and campus events as transformative experiences. 

Special guests of Eastern's legislative breakfast included Rep. Susan Johnson, Sen. Cathy Osten and Rep. Haddad, as well as Chancellor Cheng and Windham Town Manager Robert Zarnetske.

• For more information on the legislative session, visit https://www.cga.ct.gov/
• For information on contacting lawmakers and testifying, visit the General Assembly website.