The Washington Student Association (WSA), which represents students from Washington State’s public colleges and universities, has named Representative Marcus Riccelli as one of two “Legislators of the Year” for 2013.
The award is offered to legislators who “exemplify student advocacy in Washington State,” and is the highest distinction given by the WSA each year. Student leaders noted in the announcement that even in an all-around banner year for public higher education – with no tuition increases for the first time in several years – Riccelli’s work to increase avenues for student input in higher education governance stood out.
In a press release announcing the news, Washington Student Association President E.B. Vodde stated:
“From the very first bill Representative Riccelli introduced to the legislature, he has really made it clear that he’s got the students’ back. Representative Riccelli’s student-oriented work continued throughout the session. He was always available to work with students. And I don’t think it’s just that he understands the future of Washington’s economy rests on the back of today’s students, although he certainly does. We believe that he recognizes the students of Washington State as an interest group with the most fundamental of interests in Washington: that of an education, and he’s willing to prioritize us.”