Join WashU Advocates, a collaborative group of students, faculty, staff, alumni, parents and friends who support WashU’s mission by connecting with government officials and sharing impactful stories to help solve pressing problems in our region, state, and nation.

The Challenge

Become an Ambassador for WashU and Higher Education

By sharing personal stories about the ways WashU matters in your life and serves our communities, WashU Advocates powerfully communicate how the university is an asset, providing positive impacts on, and improving the lives of all Missourians and beyond.

WashU’s mission of teaching, research and patient care touches individuals in communities and neighborhoods every day. In alignment with WashU’s Here and Next strategic plan, the new WashU Advocates program empowers our community to drive greater impact with their elected officials, strengthen WashU’s connection with all levels of government and generate transformative solutions to deep societal challenges.

WashU Student Advocates Visit the Missouri Capital 

Contact

Tonya Rice

Tonya Rice

Assistant Vice Chancellor for Advocacy and Engagement
rtonya@wustl.edu

Why Join WashU Advocates?

YOUR VOICE CAN MAKE A DIFFERENCE

Get Action Alerts

Get communication alerts including calls to action on federal research funding and other legislation that could impact WashU.

Resources & Training

Access to tools to easily email elected officials and receive training on how to effectively advocate for the university.

Be “In the Know”

Receive year-round behind-the-scenes updates about higher education policy issues, legislative actions in Jefferson City, Washington, D.C., and St. Louis that impact WashU.


Latest News

Federal Impacts

Federal Impacts

Learn how WashU is closely monitoring updates from the federal government.

Collective action, ongoing advocacy

Collective action, ongoing advocacy

WashU Advocates are raising awareness about WashU’s mission with government officials, communicating how the university works to solve societal challenges and improve lives.

More Ways to Get Involved

Guidance on Political, Campaign and Lobbying Activity

Planning an event with elected officials, political candidates, or campaign staff? Review WashU’s guidelines to understand key campus requirements and restrictions on lobbying and political activity.

Engaging with Policymakers

Planning to meet or interact with policymakers in an official capacity? Please inform the Government Relations team in advance so we can include it in our legally required quarterly reporting. We are also here to help you prepare testimony, strategy, and logistics.

Advocate for WashU & Advance Our Communities Together