Lynn Students Introduce Up to Us Competition to Campus
Recently, Lynn students have come together to generate action and build awareness regarding the ongoing national debt crisis and other fiscal issues in America with the Up to Us competition.
“Most Americans — and especially most college students do not understand the negative impact of the budget deficit and national debt on their lives and on our economy,” said Dr. Robert Watson, professor. “Moreover, it is this generation —today’s college students – that may very well end up having to repay the debts incurred by their parents’ generation.”
Five students, Wainright Acquoi, James Okina, Lauryn Harris, Salma Moran and Reagan Fox have spearheaded the initiative which is also led by Watson as the faculty supervisor. These students have planned and executed multiple on campus events in an effort to not only educate students, but also to collect 350 pledges promising to take action against the national debt.
“The U.S. national debt is an issue so far moved from our everyday lives, although it affects our everyday lives,” said Okina, freshman. “It’s important that students are not blind to the issues that can affect them in the future.”
Acquoi, the team lead, had the opportunity to attend the Up to Us training in Oakland, Calif. in March where he had the opportunity to connect with other students leaders across America and learn about the program.
“Despite a win, It is important for us to take the initiative to start the conversation,” said Okina. “Being an international student some may say that we are unqualified to speak about these issues that don’t specifically affect me but I believe that staying silent allows injustices to thrive”
The Up to Us competition will end on April 12. The group of student leaders who come in first place will receive a cash prize as well as an all expense paid trip to the a national conference of the students choice. To inquire more information about the Up to Us competition or to sign the pledge, visit
https://www.itsuptous.org/get-involved/pledge.
