Stony Brook University has taken a significant step in the Washington, DC higher education community with the election of Lauren Brookmeyer as chair of the Association of Public and Land-grant Universities’ (APLU) Council on Governmental Affairs (CGA). Brookmeyer, who is also the associate vice president for federal relations and head of the university's DC Office, assumed this leadership role last month. Her position allows Stony Brook to influence federal higher education policy and research funding advocacy in the capital.
In her new role, Brookmeyer will lead national discussions on higher education and research advocacy, aiming to support public research universities. This places Stony Brook University at a strategic point in key negotiations within Washington.
“I am deeply honored to serve as chair of APLU’s Council on Governmental Affairs,” said Brookmeyer. “I look forward to collaborating with my APLU colleagues across the country as we continue to advance the vital work of APLU in advocating for sound policies and critical funding that support public universities. The importance of this work has never been more evident as the US seeks to win the global innovation race. I am excited to contribute to APLU’s efforts ensuring public universities obtain the federal support necessary to continue playing a pivotal role in driving our nation’s future success.”
The CGA is scheduled to hold its 2025 Winter Meeting on February 26 and February 27 in Washington, DC. The agenda includes discussions on new Executive Orders from the Administration, guidance from federal agencies, Fiscal Year 2025 and 2026 federal appropriations priorities for higher education, and budget reconciliation.
APLU is an organization that brings together university leaders dedicated to advancing public research universities' missions. Its membership comprises nearly 250 public research universities, land-grant institutions, state university systems, and affiliated organizations across all 50 states, including territories such as Canada and Mexico.