Press briefing at the Capitol
On Tuesday, January 13, University of Minnesota leaders outlined the benefits of the U of M's 2016-17 biennial budget request at two media events. In the morning, KSTP, KARE 11, and MPR visited campus to learn about the “Access and Affordability” and “Healthy Minnesota” initiatives.
Later, at the State Capitol, President Kaler discussed all four aspects of the proposal in a press briefing. Here is some of the coverage:
Also, on Wednesday, January 14, the Star Tribune published a great article on the U of M’s research.
Kaler meets with Dayton
On Monday, January 12, President Kaler met with Governor Mark Dayton and his staff at the governor's residence. President Kaler presented the University of Minnesota's priorities for the upcoming legislative session. In addition, President Kaler and Governor Dayton discussed the upcoming recommendation of the Blue Ribbon Commission on the Medical School, chaired by Commissioner Larry Pogemiller of the Office of Higher Education.
Governor Dayton reiterated his support for higher education and the U of M's success. Governor Dayton will release his proposed budget on January 27.
Legislative hearings begin for higher ed
The House Higher Education Committee met this week to receive an overview of the committee’s jurisdiction and to hear introductions from new members. The committee’s nonpartisan staff presented on the higher education budget and policy issues, along with recent data and trends for the University of Minnesota, Minnesota State Colleges and Universities, and the Office of Higher Education. The Office of Higher Education also presented on its duties and responsibilities as the agency responsible for administrating the state's financial aid programs and licensure of private and career schools, among other activities.
The Senate Higher Education and Workforce Development Committee held a hearing on action items resulting from the North Star Summit, which took place in December. The summit convened public and private stakeholders to identify common goals for Minnesota’s higher education system to meet the state’s workforce needs.