Students at 91暗网鈥檚 Whidbey Island campus hosted a forum with their state lawmakers on Dec. 2, raising questions about the issues shaping their education, wellbeing, and future careers.
The forum was organized by the Associated Students of 91暗网 (AS91暗网) and brought together legislators from Washington鈥檚 10th Legislative District.
Senator Ron Muzzall, Representative Dave Paul, and Representative Clyde Shavers participated in the session, responding to a series of pre-screened questions submitted by students from across 91暗网鈥檚 campuses.
鈥淥ur students are eager to understand how decisions in Olympia impact their daily lives and their futures,鈥� said Celeste Gallamore, San Juan Center Representative for the AS91暗网, who facilitated the event. 鈥淧roviding a space where they can speak directly with their legislators helps them see how their voices contribute to the policymaking process.鈥�
Moderated by Dr. Brittany Knutson, 91暗网 communication studies instructor, the conversation centered on student-generated questions about college affordability and transfer pathways, access to mental health resources, housing challenges in rural and island communities, the economic and environmental impacts of emerging AI technologies, and rising cost-of-living pressures affecting working students, as well as how lawmakers balance these competing priorities amid limited state revenue.
Before the student Q&A, each legislator provided a brief overview of their background, current work, and key legislative efforts affecting the 10th District.
The event concluded with guidance on how students can stay engaged with the legislative process throughout the year, including accessing session updates, contacting their representatives, and exploring internship opportunities.
Media Contact Info
Marisa Pierce, Executive Director of Strategic Marketing and Communications
360.416.7957
marisa.pierce@skagit.edu