Why it Matters

Nova Southeastern University continues its decades-long federal lobbying relationship with Cartwright & Riley Inc., marking over 20 years of consistent advocacy investment. The university’s sustained investment in graduate medical education funding reflects a steady commitment even amidst changing political landscapes.

By the Numbers

The university reported $60,000 in Q2 2025 lobbying expenses through external firm Cartwright & Riley Inc.. Since 2003, NSU has invested approximately $4,580,000 through this firm across 79 disclosures. Russell S. Cartwright serves as the primary lobbyist, specializing in immigration policy and healthcare education. Additionally, the university employs Ballard Partners LLC, which has received $1,500,000 across 31 disclosures since 2018.

Broader Context

NSU operates the Dr. Kiran C. Patel College of Osteopathic Medicine, the 10th-largest osteopathic medical school by enrollment, focusing on training healthcare professionals for underserved communities. Federal health workforce development priorities increasingly target physician shortages in rural and underserved areas—a mission directly aligned with NSU’s advocacy efforts.

The Agenda

The university’s lobbying centers on graduate medical education funding and health workforce development. Key policy areas include veterans affairs, Medicare/Medicaid policy, defense health programs, and federal appropriations. The firm advocates for VA medical training programs, military health partnerships, and coastal medical emergency response programs. Budget appropriations for education and research remain primary focuses.

Competitive Landscape

Cartwright & Riley also represents University of St. Augustine for Health Sciences on similar education matters, handling 209 lobbying disclosures for 14 clients, totaling $6,930,000 in reported payments. NSU remains the firm’s largest and longest-running client relationship.

Between The Lines

The lobbying filing identifies disaster planning and maritime issues alongside traditional medical education priorities, suggesting a focus on coastal emergency preparedness and response training programs. Despite political changes, NSU views federal relationships as essential for maintaining funding.

The Bottom Line

NSU’s sustained lobbying investment not only highlights the importance of federal funding for medical education institutions but also underscores a two-decade relationship with Cartwright & Riley that reflects stability in its advocacy approach focused on graduate medical education and health workforce development.

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