January 10, 2003January 10, 2003
Dear Colleagues:
Earlier this week, the Governor met with leaders of Missouri's public colleges and universities to discuss his plans for dealing with the FY03 budget shortfall and to outline plans for FY04. I participated in this meeting and was pleased to hear the Governor restate his commitment to investing in higher education and to finding permanent solutions to the budget problems facing the State of Missouri. While the details of the Governor's recommendations for funding higher education will not be known until Jan. 15 when he presents his State of the State Address, it is clear that both legislative and executive branch leaders are keenly aware of the needs of higher education, including University Outreach and Extension, and they understand the unique contribution Missouri's colleges and universities make to the state's economic advancement. Clearly, our goal is to avoid the withholding of state funds in the current year and to restore core state funding in the coming fiscal year. As the new legislative session begins, I will stay in close touch with developments in Jefferson City that have potential to reach these important goals.
In light of our current budget situation and as we await the results of deliberations in Jefferson City, we are continuing to reduce UO/E administrative costs to the extent possible. As part of this effort, I have asked Dr. Pat Sobrero, associate vice president, to assume temporary responsibility for oversight of our human resource development functions as well as permanent oversight of field operations. I also have asked Dr. Julie Middleton, system program director, to assume EEO/diversity responsibilities.
The University and University Outreach and Extension have been required to adapt to adversity created by the state's fiscal situation. While these adaptations are never easy, we have learned to adapt while continuing to carry out our mission. I am very mindful that there are limits to our ability to adapt to adversity, and I believe the real challenge facing us now is to maintain and enhance the quality of our programs as we continue to serve the people of Missouri. In times of difficulty, quality must be preserved to the best of our ability. I want you to know how much I appreciate what you do best -- improving people's lives.
As we get more details on the state budget situation, I will continue to keep you informed, and I welcome your comments and questions. Please send them directly to me or to our Budget website.
With all best regards,
Ron Turner Executive Vice President and Director
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Eileen Yager,
yagere@umsystem.edu |
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