Following is a statement by Association of American Universities President Mary Sue Coleman on the administration’s proposed FY19 budget:
The administration’s proposed FY19 budget would cripple our nation’s position as a global science and technology leader and greatly erode the longstanding government-university partnership that supports our public health, national defense, and economic competitiveness. This budget would also make higher education less affordable and less accessible at a time when our economy demands a high-skilled, highly-educated, and innovative workforce.
Hubs of innovation and education, America’s research universities are the lifeblood of their surrounding communities and states. In accordance with their public service mission, they provide the cures, technologies, and skills of tomorrow. This budget would slash investment in the very research and education programs critical to our nation’s continued prosperity.
This budget clearly turns its back on America’s long-standing commitment to being the global leader in education, science, and research. I urge Congress to instead support America’s future by investing in research and education.
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.