It’s a busy time of year in Sacramento, where our elected officials are charting a course for California’s future through the state budget process.
Last week, Governor Gavin Newsom released his revised budget proposal, which maintains critical funding for the University of California. In a challenging budget environment, with many competing priorities to balance, Gov. Newsom’s support for the University of California is significant. I am grateful that we have such a strong partnership — rooted in a shared belief in the power of higher education and research for the benefit of our state.
If approved, this budget will provide funding for the urgent priorities we share — including increasing California undergraduate and graduate student enrollment, expanding student resources, building additional student housing, and hiring more faculty and staff.
But we need your help. Our staff and faculty are some of the best messengers to tell the extraordinary story of the work you undertake every single day at the University of California. From exceptional teaching to world-changing research to public service that makes a difference, you are at the heart of the university’s mission. That mission — and your work to advance it — is key to keeping the California economy globally competitive and helping to solve California’s most urgent issues.
Over the next few weeks, please consider using your voice to advocate for the University of California and our budget needs. Call your elected officials. Join the UC Advocacy Network. Pledge your support for our university. Together, we can make the case for a budget that supports the university and the state.
Fiat Lux!
Michael V. Drake, M.D.
President
University of California