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Senator Jon Tester’s View from Capitol Hill 

March 21, 2024 — by Terrance L. Hamm

As the Senate co-chair of the Congressional TRIO Caucus, he reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for the transformative impact of TRIO programs on students’ lives. He remarked, “Thank you for what you do,” recognizing the invaluable contributions of educators and advocates in shaping the future of our nation.  

In a stirring moderated roundtable, U.S. Senator Jon Tester (D-MT) captivated hundreds of college access and success professionals from across the country at COE’s 43rd annual Policy Seminar with personal anecdotes and impassioned advocacy for education.  

His trajectory from community activism to political leadership exemplifies the power of education and public service. Reflecting on his journey from a high school student visiting the Montana state legislature to serving as a United States Senator, Tester shared, “It might sound corny, but when I was a junior in high school… I thought to myself, one of these days, I’m going to run for this.”  

Throughout his remarks, Senator Tester expressed deep admiration for the TRIO programs and their remarkable impact on students’ lives. He praised the dedication and effectiveness of TRIO educators, stating, “When it comes to bang for the buck, it’s pretty hard to find anybody that does more work with less money.” Senator Tester’s unwavering support for TRIO stems from his belief in the program’s ability to empower students and transform communities. 

His fervent defense of public education served as a rallying cry for continued investment in teachers and schools to ensure future generations receive the opportunities they deserve. Senator Tester underscored the critical importance of public education in sustaining democracy and fostering societal progress. Drawing from his family’s legacy of educators, he emphasized, “Without public education, we would not have a democracy today.”  

As the Senate co-chair of the Congressional TRIO Caucus, he reaffirmed his commitment to advocating for the transformative impact of TRIO programs on students’ lives. He remarked, “Thank you for what you do,” recognizing the invaluable contributions of educators and advocates in shaping the future of our nation.  

Senator Tester’s steadfast leadership and unwavering support for TRIO programs provide hope for students and communities nationwide. 

Informed advocacy shapes policies

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