State & Federal Relations
In 1889, the Washington State Territorial Legislature designated the Benjamin P. Cheney Academy as the State Normal School in Cheney, Washington. Decisions made in Olympia continue to impact our university and the students we serve. EWU’s Government Relations Department works with campus and community stakeholders to develop priorities for a legislative agenda and builds consensus throughout the region to effectively move that agenda forward. The president and Government Relations Department collaborate with Washington’s other public baccalaureate institutions to present a unified and focused voice for higher education to the Washington State Legislature.
The Government Relations Department advocates for Eastern’s federal priorities to Washington’s congressional delegation. EWU works closely with GSI (Greater Spokane, Inc.) and West Plains Chamber of Commerce to ensure that the university’s priorities are a part of our region’s legislative package. We also partner with the American Association of State Colleges and Universities (AASCU). AASCU’s consistent presence in Washington, DC helps maximize the influence of regional universities in the eyes of our federal elected officials.