Even in the 1980’s, college was not cheap. I relied on TAP and Pell Grants, as well as a partial scholarship from Hamilton College, just to make it through four and a half years of college life.
I say “and a half years” because I spent a summer as a pre-freshman in Hamilton’s Higher Education Opportunity Program (HEOP), a helping hand for students in need.
The HEOP program was as much a part of my college life as the college radio station and 8:00 a.m. literature classes. It helped me out in tough times. It got me through the worst of the worst.
The HEOP program, as well as other programs provided by colleges and universities for students in need, was a beacon in a chasm. And now, programs like HEOP are in danger of disappearing.
New York Governor Kathy Hochul’s 2025 state budget would engage a 4.3% cut to Opportunity Programs throughout the state, amounting to a $2.2 million reduction in funding that directly impacts students who rely on HEOP to break through the financial and opportunity barriers and receive the same college education as anybody else.
This cannot take place. Not here, not now. Not in New York. And not among those who need it.
We are in a situation right now where education and knowledge has come under attack by those who have privilege and means – those same greedies who take from the needy. A chance to improve where we are in life should NOT be restricted by pursestrings or redlining. New York has to take a stand and help those who want a better life the opportunity to achieve it.
Last week, several Hamilton College students traveled to Albany to meet with legislators and Governor Hochul’s staff. Their goal – to restore this funding, and secure a 20% increase from the Senate and Assembly. But the job is nowhere near complete. HEOP alumni from several New York institutes of higher learning have been asked to #StandUp4StudentAid by clicking on this link and sending a generated message to Governor Hochul, as well as to their local state senators and assembly.
I’m joining the fight. Without that HEOP program, Hamilton College would not be part of my legacy. What they gave me is a kindness that can never be repaid in full.
But I can start repaying by sharing this blog with you. And to encourage you, whether you were a HEOP student or not, to contact Governor Hochul and let her know that student aid for those in need should be an available blessing and not a half-whispered talking point.
This is truly important. Let us build a future where the same opportunities exist for our brightest minds, and isn’t snuffed out by the privileged families of entitled oligarchs.
Thank you.
– Chuck Miller, Hamilton College Class of 1985, HEOP Alumni since 1981.
Chuck The Writer 
I worked in HEOP at the Sage Colleges Junior College of Albany and Siena College. It’s not just a program of financial aid to low-income students, it also provides academic assistance and support to help ensure student success. That 2.2 million being cut will affects thousands of students lives.
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