The SUNY system is a crown jewel of New York state. But unfortunately, it has been left without support for too long. Now the state is playing catchup, and a couple years of increased funding cannot make up for decades of neglect.
NYSUT is asking the state legislature for a $141.8 million increase in operating aid to SUNY campuses above the number proposed by the governor in her executive budget. United University Professions, one of the many unions within NYSUT which represents SUNY professors, is also calling for $41.8 million in direct, targeted aids to specific SUNY campuses: Buffalo State, Fredonia, Potsdam and SUNY ESF. UUP is also calling for the restoration of funding for the Educational Opportunity Program, along with an additional $20 million to expand the program.
UUP has begun running ads in Albany, Buffalo, Fredonia, Potsdam and Syracuse asking lawmakers to provide this funding to continue supporting SUNY as an economic engine and lifeline for students and families across the state. Specifically at SUNY ESF, NYSUT and UUP have called on SUNY and the state to increase state support for a one-of-a-kind institution, especially at a time when the federal government is cutting research grants in the face of climate change.
You can watch UUP’s ads below: