Statement from SUNY Chancellor Zimpher and CUNY Chancellor Goldstein

“As chancellors of New York State's two public university systems, we strongly support the 2010 Executive Budget initiatives that allow SUNY and CUNY the authorization for a predictable tuition policy and subsequent investment in people, programs and services; the lifting of regulatory practices to allow for greater flexibility in procurement policies and land use; the moderation of proposed reductions in the operating budgets of both Universities and the maintenance of current financial aid levels.

“Both universities are continuing to serve record-breaking enrollments, including over 725,000 students seeking degrees, and hundreds of thousands more in college preparatory and adult and continuing education programs.  Application rates for the fall already significantly exceed last year's levels, as more New Yorkers pursue higher education in a difficult economy.   In our testimonies today before joint hearings of the New York State Senate Finance and Assembly Ways and Means Committees, we will discuss the impact of the Executive Budget on SUNY and CUNY.

“We will continue to work with the Executive and the Legislature on the adoption of a budget which advances both the education and the economy of the people of New York.”

-30-