Gator Advocates,
TODAY your voice will make a difference. We need you!
The Florida Legislature is at a critical state of the budget writing process and we urgently need your help in encouraging your legislators to support the University of Florida. Appropriators are meeting this weekend to finalize budget line items so that the budget can be on the legislative desks by Tuesday, March 6th in order for the session to end on time on Friday, March 9th.
In 2013, the Florida Legislature overwhelmingly passed a measure aimed at elevating the academic and research preeminence of Florida’s highest-performing state universities: UF and Florida State University. Since that time, the Legislature has invested $52.3 million into UF. But today, Preeminence funding is in jeopardy. We are asking the Legislature to continue its investment in the Preeminence program, which has been vital to the University reaching No. 9 in the U.S. News & World Report “Best Colleges”. With this funding, we are working toward the goal of becoming a top-five public research university.
Currently in the 2018-19 state budget, the Florida Legislature included $20 million for Preeminence funding to be divided between the Preeminent Universities. Of this, UF is estimated to receive $6 million. But this funding is now in jeopardy. Funding will improve our student-to-faculty ratio to 16-1 (from 20-1) to make UF competitive with top peer research universities.
We urge you to reach out to your local state representatives and senators TODAY and urge them to support Preeminence funding at $20 million.
For your convenience, we have included a draft message for your use. Please remember your communication will be more effective if you personalize the email by telling your legislator why supporting UF is important to you.
Thank you for your advocacy of our University.
Go Gators!
DRAFT EMAIL
Dear (Fill in Your Local Legislator’s Name):
Please support $20 million in funding for Florida’s Preeminent Universities. The Florida Legislature’s investment into UF was a major reason for this year’s five-spot jump to No. 9 from No. 14 in the U.S. News rankings of public research universities. This funding is critical to maintaining a Top 10 standing and to improving further.
As a supporter of the University of Florida, I urge you to give these appropriations favorable consideration.
Thank you,
Your Name / Contact Information