Overview
CSSA is an independent, non-profit student association that addresses issues affecting students at the statewide and systemwide level. CSSA is governed by a student board of directors composed of the officially recognized representatives of each of the 23 CSU campuses and employs three full-time professional staff to carry out its directives.
History
1958
"Student Presidents Association" founded by a group of Associated Students presidents three years before the formation of the CSU system. Quickly became an informed, active student association working with the university administration.
1963
Student Presidents Association formally recognized by the CSU Board of Trustees.
1972
Student Presidents Association sponsors successful legislation authorizing the expenditure of student body fees to fund a lobbyist for CSU students (Ed Code § 89300). (This is why CSSA is able to employ a director of government relations.)
1974
Student leaders successfully advocate students' interests to the legislature and university administration, setting the foundation of student leadership that exists today. Leadership's victories with the governor and legislature start CSSA's tradition of seeking victories in the legislature if they are not forthcoming from the system.
1979
CSSA starts including an additional student from each campus-the CSSA Representative-and renames itself The California State Student Association.