Advancing National Impact
Highlighting the University’s partnerships, priorities, and progress in federal policymaking to support education, research, and innovation.
The University of Rochester’s federal advocacy efforts are dedicated to advancing national priorities that align with our mission in education, research, and healthcare. By engaging with policymakers and agencies, we work to secure resources, shape policy, and amplify the University’s contributions to society.
Sustained federal investment in competitively awarded research is critical to driving U.S. innovation, job creation, economic growth, national security and global competitiveness. Federal support allows us to attract and retain scientific and medical talent and develop new ideas and technologies that expand knowledge, benefit society, and lead to local economic growth.
UR Medicine, its affiliates and collaborators are upstate New York’s largest integrated health care system and safety-net provider. Our eight hospitals, seven nursing homes, Golisano Children’s Hospital, Wilmot Cancer Institute, Eastman Institute of Oral Health, and UR Medicine Home Care provide high quality care and services for a population of almost 3 million. In FY23, the University of Rochester Medical Center (URMC) alone provided $298 million in charity and uncompensated care and $603 million in community benefit as we collaborate with our community partners to improve the health of our region. Support for the 340B program, Medicare, Medicaid, and agencies like SAMHSA, HRSA and the CDC is critical to the accessible, quality health care we provide, the public health programs we offer, and impacts our ability to train the next generation of providers.
The University champions federal financial aid programs, ensuring students from all backgrounds can pursue higher education. In 2024, over 1,230 undergraduate students benefitted from federal Pell Grants, while $24 million in federally funded work-study opportunities and loan assistance supported their academic success.
As a thought leader in higher education, research, and healthcare policy, the University frequently collaborates with Congress and federal agencies to share the latest science, address critical challenges, and promote evidence-based best practices.
The University of Rochester collaborates with federal leaders to advance policies and funding that support education, research, and innovation, amplifying its national impact.
The University’s leadership frequently meets with federal agencies, such as the Department of Energy (DOE), to advocate for sustained funding for the Laboratory for Laser Energetics. This funding supports cutting-edge research in energy and national security. Partnering with the National Institutes of Health (NIH), the University has contributed to transformative healthcare advancements, including research on Alzheimer’s disease and vaccine development.
As upstate New York’s largest integrated health care system, UR Medicine is at the forefront of advancements in clinical care. In partnership with our rural affiliate hospitals, we are working to preserve and expand access to care across our region and address disparities in care. Our efforts influence federal legislation and regulations health priorities to improve health outcomes nationwide.
The University supports legislation that strengthens federal funding for STEM education. This advocacy has enhanced resources for graduate education and created new pathways for underrepresented students in STEM fields.
Through consistent dialogue with policymakers, the University champions increased funding for Pell Grants, Supplemental Educational Opportunity Grants, Federal Work-Study, federal work-study and federal student loan programs, benefiting over 6,300 students annually and helping ensure a brighter future for all.
The University showcases the real-world impact of federal investments, such as research grants that drive local economic development and educational initiatives that prepare the workforce of tomorrow.
