The following is a statement from Association of American Universities President Barbara R. Snyder on the government shutdown:
Government shutdowns have serious negative consequences for everyday Americans that go far beyond national parks, Smithsonian museums, and other federal facilities being closed. They include the abrupt cessation of crucial federally funded scientific research that can help us find cures for diseases, secure our country, and bolster our economy through discovery and innovation. Other negative consequences include disruptions of assistance that the Department of Education provides to our universities and our students. The longer Congress fails to reopen the government, the more sustained the shutdown’s effects will be on students, faculty, and researchers.
I sincerely hope that Congress and the president can find a responsible way to ensure that the government remains open and does not shut down. We implore lawmakers and President Trump to come together to reach an agreement to fund the government .
Founded in 1900, the Association of American Universities is composed of America’s leading research universities. AAU’s 71 research universities transform lives through education, research, and innovation.
Our member universities earn the majority of competitively awarded federal funding for research that improves public health, seeks to address national challenges, and contributes significantly to our economic strength, while educating and training tomorrow’s visionary leaders and innovators.
AAU member universities collectively help shape policy for higher education, science, and innovation; promote best practices in undergraduate and graduate education; and strengthen the contributions of leading research universities to American society.
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