Following is a statement by Association of American Universities President Mary Sue Coleman on the Senate’s proposed FY19 Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies funding bill:
We applaud the Senate Appropriations Subcommittee on Interior, Environment, and Related Agencies for proposing a much-needed $2 million increase in investment in the National Endowment for the Humanities. The efforts of Subcommittee Chairwoman Murkowski and Ranking Member Udall will help ensure NEH can continue to fund grants and programs that enrich American society.
NEH-supported programs represent the core fields of knowledge and capacities that enrich individual lives and provide a foundation for success in a wide range of careers. As part of the government-university partnership, these programs undergird our civic institutions, support strategic national interests, and help advance sound public policymaking in addressing national challenges.
Founded in 1900, the Association of American Universities comprises 62 distinguished institutions that continually advance society through education, research, and discovery.
Our universities earn the majority of competitively awarded federal funding for academic research, are improving human life and wellbeing through research, and are educating tomorrow’s visionary leaders and global citizens.
AAU members collectively help shape policy for higher education, science, and innovation; promote best practices in undergraduate and graduate education; and strengthen the contributions of research universities to society.