University of California President Michael V. Drake, M.D., today (Jan. 10) issued the following statement on Gov. Gavin Newsom’s proposed 2025-26 budget:
The University of California, the UC Board of Regents, the Governor, and the Legislature share a commitment to excellence in California higher education. Over the past several years, we have worked together to achieve the shared goals outlined in our multiyear budget Compact, including greater access, affordability, and student success. I appreciate Gov. Newsom’s continued interest in higher education and the success of our students.
At a time when the University is enrolling record numbers of California students, I am concerned about the impact of the proposed $271 million funding reduction on our students and campus services. I look forward to our continued collaboration with the Legislature and the Governor throughout the budget process to mitigate any harmful budget impacts. With stable state support, the University can continue to invest in California’s students, our state’s economic growth, and the leading-edge research needed to address some of the world’s most pressing challenges.