No Time like the Present...to Prepare for the Future: Higher Education

Thank Goodness, and THANK YOU Governor Kulongoski and State Legislators.

The Oregon University System (OUS) received a 23% increase in a combination of operating and capital projects funding from the State Legislature and Governor Kulongoski. The General Fund budget for the OUS system for 2007-09 is $870.4 million. As OUS Chancellor George Pernsteiner stated, "This budget signals a major commitment by the legislature to meet ...the ten-year reinvestment plan to improve student access and affordability, high quality learning, innovative research and programs directed at economic development, workforce shortages, and other state priorities for Oregon."

That is a mouthful, but it points out the various crucial roles higher education plays in Oregon.

The Community College System received $512 million total, a $71 millionPCC increase over the 2005-07 budget. The strong signal here is to provide for workforce development and to insure access to affordable higher education throughout Oregon. There are 17 community colleges in Oregon, many located in communities without four year college options. Whether students are heading for workforce training, a four year academic degree or lifelong learning opportunities, the community college allocation is significant to all Oregonians.

The Oregon university system alone has a $640 million backlog in deferred maintenance and repairs; the $60 million directed to reduce that backlog will mark the first time in several decades the backlog will be reduced. It is a good time to be turning from disinvestment to investment, and providing and planning for the future.

Sam led City Council efforts to make higher education funding, as well as PSUthe Oregon Opportunity Grants and Aspire mentoring program, priorities for Portland's Legislative package. He joined students, community, business and education leaders who became vigilant and vocal higher education advocates testifying, lobbying, writing letters and making calls throughout the session. Together, they created a steady drumbeat of support, highlighting the educational and economic necessities for improving higher education funding in Oregon.

Newspapers throughout the State reinforced the demand for higher education support. David Sarasohn, Associate Editor at The Oregonian was particularly effective and relentless. His nearly weekly editorials clarified the current dismal reality and the existing and future need for strong higher education opportunities in Oregon. Frankly, the state's investment in higher education isn't yet what it needs to be for the sake of our children and our economy. But, as of now, we are heading in the right direction.

Bravo. Encore. And again, Thank You.