Boise, ID – Today the student government leaders from Idaho’s public and private colleges and universities have issued a joint statement calling on the Idaho Legislature to preserve the Idaho LAUNCH Program amid renewed efforts that could reduce or restrict the program.
You can find the joint statement HERE.
The joint statement affirms the unified position of student leaders across the state and emphasizes the program’s impact on workforce development, in-state enrollment growth, and expanded access for Idaho students pursuing high-demand careers. Student government leaders warn that weakening the program would undermine Idaho’s progress in strengthening its talent pipeline and supporting students preparing to contribute to the state’s economy.
ASBSU President Isaac Celedon issued the following statement: “This is a defining moment for Idaho’s commitment to its students and workforce. Idaho LAUNCH is more than a line item in a budget, it is a promise that when Idaho students work hard and pursue careers, this state will invest in their future.
Over the past year, we have seen that promise come to life. Thousands of students who once questioned whether postsecondary education was financially possible are now enrolling and preparing to contribute to Idaho’s workforce. That progress is real. Students at Boise State and institutions across Idaho have felt its impact. I have even seen it firsthand in my own family, where LAUNCH is helping make an engineering education possible.
To weaken LAUNCH now would not simply adjust a line item in a budget, but would send a message about who and what we prioritize. I believe Idaho should stand firmly with its students. We should protect the opportunity that has already begun to change lives, and continue building a stronger workforce.”
Participating Student Governments in Idaho:
- Associated Students of Boise State University
- Associated Students of the University of Idaho
- Associated Students of Idaho State University
- Associated Students of Lewis-Clark State College
- Associated Students of North Idaho College
- Associated Students of College of Southern Idaho
- Associated Students of the College of Idaho
- Associated Students of College of Western Idaho
- College of Eastern Idaho Student Senate
- Student Leadership of Brigham Young University-Idaho
The full joint statement has been formally issued to members of the Idaho Legislature and relevant stakeholders.