NYPIRG (NEW YORK PUBLIC INTEREST RESEARCH GROUP)
- Contact: Program Coordinator Location: 1C-218
- Phone: 1.718.982.3109
- Hours: Daily and by appointment
- Website: www.nypirg.org NYPIRG
The New York Public Interest Research Group, is a statewide, student-directed group that works to protect the environment, defend higher education, and fight for consumer rights.
CSI NYPIRG is one of 20 chapters based out of colleges and universities across New York State. NYPIRG’s State Board of Directors is made up entirely of students, including three from the College of Staten Island. The Board of Directors is responsible for establishing NYPIRG’s direction. NYPIRG students develop and lead projects on a variety of issues such as environmental protection, higher education, homelessness, and student empowerment.
CSI NYPIRG has advocated for environmental justice, lobbied in Albany and City Hall for better legislation to protect children against lead poisoning, and organized coalitions to fight against proposed CUNY budget cuts and tuition hikes. For example, students working with NYPIRG fought for and won funding to clean up over 800 toxic waste sites in New York, including nine here in Staten Island. Students involved in NYPIRG have become advocates for their local and statewide communities. Students conduct surveys and news conferences to alert consumers of rip-offs and other issues. The NYPIRG Straphangers Campaign reports on inadequate transit service and reduced fares for students. NYPIRG offers internships on and off campus and every semester NYPIRG students participate in a Statewide Student Action Conference. This is an opportunity to meet students from across the state, have fun, and learn. CSI NYPIRG strongly encourages student leaders to attend.
NYPIRG organizes a General Interest Meeting/Student Action Meeting each semester for students looking to get involved. Those interested can stop by the NYPIRG office located in the Campus Center (1C), Room 218, or call 1.718.982.3109.