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Legislative advocacy is an important way to support UMass. Meeting with legislators is simple and an effective way to share your ideas and concerns. There are a few pitfalls you will want to avoid to ensure that your efforts are most effective. When meeting with a legislator: Stay focused on the message. UMass is a large and complex organization and everyone will have pet peeves. Highlighting these issues is a distraction and undermines advocacy efforts. When we meet with legislators we must present a simple message: Education is the best investment the state can make. Your personal story of UMass's impact will support this message. Cultivate all potential allies. Be polite to everyone you encounter, including secretaries and legislative staff. Important allies and UMass alumni can show up in unexpected places. Respect the legislator's time. Although legislators are busy, contact with their constituents is a high priority. Respect your legislator's schedule by being on time. Be prepared and state your points succinctly. Thank the legislator for his or her time. Go with the flow. Legislators may have to change their plans at the last minute. Be positive. You know that UMass adds value to the Commonwealth and the state's investment in public higher education reaps dividends. Remind your legislators that investing in UMass is a long term commitment which ultimately improves the quality of life for citizens of the Commonwealth. Send a thank you note. Everyone likes to be appreciated. Written thanks are another opportunity to contact your legislator. If you have any questions, Advocacy Programs staff will be happy to assist with your advocacy efforts to avoid pitfalls and ensure success. Thank you for your support of UMass Amherst. |
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