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During the board of regents meeting earlier this month, President Johnsen shared information on the University of Alaska budget, including information about three possible funding scenarios.
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The Board of Regents budget request is the preferred scenario. The $341 million request includes $9.4 million for fixed cost increases and $14.7 million in new investment in programs throughout the UA system that aim to increase enrollment and degree attainment, and to grow our research enterprise.
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The second scenario is the budget proposed by Gov. Bill Walker. It would provide $317 million in state funding to the university, the same amount allocated in FY18.
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The third scenario is midway between the two. The House Finance Committee has proposed a budget of $336 million, an increase of $19 million over FY18. The Senate still needs to make its own budget proposal. If the House and Senate proposals are not the same, the two bodies will meet in conference committee to create a final budget. After the House and Senate pass the budget, it will go back to the governor for his consideration.
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In an effort to minimize the number of budget scenarios that UAF unit leaders have to create, I have asked vice chancellors to prepare for the $317 million, flat-funding level with the hope that we land at or near the regents’ request of $341 million.
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As in past years, it’s important to remember that flat state funding means we will have to make some reductions across UAF to cover fixed costs and any new investments. Even with an increase in state funding, covering the UA/UAF proposed investments will likely require either one-time funds from statewide or reallocation within the university.
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The president’s strategic investment plan allocates additional funding to areas of the university that will generate revenue. Building that capacity at UAF is critical to successfully meeting our education, research and outreach missions.
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It’s still too early to say where the university budget will land, but I felt it prudent that we begin planning now. The potential for an increase in base funding over last year is good news. I hope you will join me in advocating for that increase.
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— Daniel M. White, chancellor
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