University of California President Michael V. Drake, M.D., today (Jan. 10) issued the following statement on Governor Gavin Newsom’s proposed 2022-23 budget:

The University of California is grateful to Gov. Newsom for his continued leadership and steadfast support of the University. The priorities he outlined today reflect our shared commitment to expanding the positive impact the University has on the lives of all Californians.

Gov. Newsom’s proposed five-year funding compact offers budget stability and reliable support to the University’s tripartite mission of teaching, research and public service. This sustained commitment will enable UC to make critical long-term investments, particularly in areas that directly support our students: further expanding California undergraduate enrollment, boosting resources to traditionally low-income and first-generation students, and increasing college access and affordability for hard-working students and families across the state. These commitments build on the advancements the Legislature and governor made in the Budget Act of 2021.

The University also greatly appreciates the governor’s proposed $185 million investment to advance UC’s impactful work in addressing the global challenges of climate change through workforce training initiatives, innovation hubs for studying and applying creative climate solutions, and research seed funding and matching grants to fund efforts to mitigate environmental impacts. Investments such as these enable our scholars to tackle challenges that affect all of our communities. In addition, the budget provides significant one-time support for energy efficiency projects and critical deferred maintenance across all UC campuses.

Gov. Newsom’s budget proposal demonstrates his strong, continued dedication to furthering UC’s excellence. We look forward to continuing to partner with his administration and with the state Legislature as they finalize the budget in the months ahead.

This article originally appeared on the University of California Office of the President website. Click here to read the original article.