The governor and the state have reduced support for instruction to OUS -- the cell funding for graduate/professional students was reduced by $10.6 million (6.3%), the cell funding for undergraduates was reduced by $8.2 million (2.2%), and funding for non resident masters was eliminated ($1.7 million). These reductions come at a time when enrollments are growing to record numbers and when our graduates need the critical thinking and analytical skills that allow them to adapt and thrive in a world defined by increasing complexity and rapid change.

The governor and the state have cut $3.2 million (20%) in support for research to OUS. The University of Oregon is a member of the highly selective American Association of Universities. The creation and application of knowledge is a central part of our mission - the educational and research missions are the heart of the University. Research contributes to the well being of Oregonians both now and in the future.

The governor and the state have cut $1.5 million (20%) in support for campus based public services to OUS. These programs enrich the lives of Oregonians by encouraging lifelong learning, promoting appreciation of the arts, fostering civic engagement, and conducting research on vital social issues. Programs on the UO campus that receive funding under this category include the Department of Planning, Public Policy and Management, the Museum of Art, the Museum of Natural History, KWAX, and the Labor Education Research Center. These public service programs strengthen public support for higher education at a critical time when adequate funding for OUS is threatened. They also directly connect the University to the community, integrate teaching, research, and service, and energize the state's economic, cultural and political structure.

Therefore be it resolved that the University of Oregon Senate urges the State Board, the Chancellor, and friends of higher education to continue to lobby the governor and the legislature to restore adequate funding for higher education both during the next special legislative session and during subsequent regular legislative sessions.

Sponsors: J. Earl (English), P. Gilkey (Mathematics), M. Hallock (Wayne Morse Center), M. Kellman (Chemistry), S. Morgen (Sociology), G. McLauchlan (Sociology), and N. Tublitz (Biology). Approved by the Faculty Advisory Council (29 April 2002).