Up to Us Campus Competition participants lead change on their campuses and bring pride to their communities. The latest example of this comes out of the town of North Hempstead where the 2017-2018 Up to Us winning team was just recognized publicly. 

The winning team from State University of New York (SUNY) at Old Westbury, led by junior Evan Rufrano, was awarded with Points of Privilege Citations which are given to outstanding individuals and or institutions whom provide a great service or positive impact on the community at large. Evan and his team’s involvement in the Up to Us Campus Competition generated greater widespread awareness of the fiscal future of their campus and greater community. Their impact went a step further, they even donated their prize money to creating a food pantry on campus and starting student scholarships. They were publicly recognized by their local leaders on their campus and in their council. 

For the 2017-2018 competition, Evan led his team in a creative campaign that included creating a "Debt Boulevard" on campus - an interactive walkway of fiscal policy and national debt statistics. The team also hosted an interactive lecture series with distinguished professors and a debate with a panel of speakers across the political spectrum. 

"This issue will impact our future, but the debate about the national debt too often omits the voices of young people. Through this Competition we were able to amplify the voice of our generation, calling on lawmakers to make responsible fiscal decisions today that will prepare us for a better tomorrow." - Evan Rufrano

We are so proud of this accomplishment. We are excited to see this town take our mission to heart and publicly recognize their outstanding students. 

Do you have a passion for impact? Bring the Up to Us movement to your community: http://www.itsuptous.org/get-involved/campus-competition