Our Mission - Student PIRGs

Students have the power to shape the future we will inherit. We work with professional staff at colleges and universities to make sure our peers have the skills, opportunities and training they need to create a better, more sustainable future for all of us. Our chapters and clubs on nearly 100 campuses in 25 states provide the training, professional support and resources students need to tackle climate change, protect public health, revitalize our democracy, feed the hungry and more. Students have been at the forefront of social change throughout history, from civil rights, to voting rights to protecting the environment. For nearly 50 years we’ve helped students to get organized, mobilized and energized so they can continue to be on the cutting edge of positive change.

Projects of the Student PIRGs

Coalition Partners

Student Testimonials:

Varunnika Sridhar // Michigan PIRG Students President at Wayne State University // Class of 2025

“When I first joined PIRGIM I didn’t realize the opportunities I would be provided with. The skills and knowledge I’ve learned while being the president of PIRGIM at Wayne State have made me a better leader both academically and professionally. I can’t wait to grow with our PIRG family in Michigan!”

Colin Humphries // Student Government President // University of Massachusetts, Amherst

“MASSPIRG has been at the forefront of student advocacy at UMass. Whether it be reducing textbook costs, food security, or voter registration – MASSPIRG has been on the frontline. Their presence on this campus has made it a better place for all students.”

Ethan Hubler // Eckerd College // Class of 2025

“The PIRG training program has been a game-changer for me. It’s not just about learning; it’s about hands-on experience and real responsibility. I’ve seen firsthand how our efforts resonate and inspire others to join in creating positive change on campus and in society.”

Caleb Gustavson // Georgia State University // 2027

“Thanks to the PIRG training program, I’ve gained invaluable skills and confidence to lead impactful campaigns that truly make a difference. It’s empowering to see how our ideas translate into real action, shaping a better future for our community and beyond.”

Voices of Support:

Cory Booker // U.S. Senator of New Jersey

“Since its founding, NJPIRG has worked to mobilize students to tackle some of the biggest challenges of our time. From fighting climate change, to ensuring affordability for higher education, to mobilizing young people in the effort of preserving democracy, [NJPIRG’s] work is an inspiration to all those who seek to shape the future.”

Wade Crowfoot // California Secretary for Natural Resources

“CALPIRG Students are making their voices heard across the state, shaping key environmental policies and educating policymakers like me. From protecting our ocean to accelerating clean energy development, this advocacy is making a clear difference pushing California to move futther and faster to combat climate change.“

Ed Markey // U.S. Senator of Massachusetts

“For decades, MASSPIRG has been an essential ally of workers, consumers, and students and has stood on the frontlines of fights for a more inclusive economy, a cleaner environment, and more affordable college. We – as a community and a country – are indebted to MASSPIRG’s work.”

Brandon Shamoun, M.Ed. // Assistant Director of Student Involvement, Wayne State University

“Wow, the excitement and joy working with energized students, like those in PIRGIM, to engage other students on voter and civic initiatives has been a moving experience. I am proud of all of the effort and support our student leaders showcased on educating their peers on the importance of voting. This is the reason why I go to work every day. By setting the path as administrators, we can further the voices for our students.”

Whitney Williams, M.S. Ed. // Assistant Director, Service Learning and Civic Engagement, Central Piedmont Community College

“I was thoroughly impressed by the activism and support NCPIRG was able to provide to our institution and our students at Central Piedmont Community College! As an institution we were able to successfully build a stronger focus on voter engagement and democracy! I am honored to have worked with such a wonderful organization, and I look forward to seeing our students use their voices to make our communities and world a better place.”