FY 2009 Funding Request
Maximize state appropriations to Oklahoma's campuses
Funding increases over the last few years have helped close the gap in per-student funding. These increases have also allowed institutions to better meet the demands of near-record enrollment and the growth in demand for quality educational experiences.
Additional funding to operational budgets of the institutions in FY 2009 is crucial in order to maintain the momentum created in recent legislative sessions.
Reduction of financial barriers
Oklahoma’s public colleges and universities continue to be among the most affordable in the region and nation. In a report from the U.S. Department of Education, Oklahoma ranks third in the nation in affordability for a four-year college education.
But it is clear from the increased rate of student debt that more needs to be done to reduce the financial barriers so that a student can earn a degree based on the ability to achieve, not just the ability to pay.
Honor endowed chair matches
Since the establishment of the endowed chairs matching program in 1988, private donors have matched $177.7 million in state dollars to fund 601 chairs. These endowed chair positions allow institutions to attract and retain highly talented faculty that enhance the quality of learning for Oklahoma’s students and can leverage additional research grants.
Enhance economic development
Boost the EDGE endowment
The EDGE endowment represents a tremendous opportunity for Oklahoma to gain a competitive advantage over other states by committing to a $1 billion endowment to fund research initiatives that will result in economic development and job growth. So far, $150 million has been appropriated to fund high-quality projects, many of which will take place on university campuses. The EDGE Board of Investors has certified $6.8 million for expenditures in FY 2008.
*Source: US Department of Education, National Center for Education Statistics Digest of Education Statistics 2005 (NCES 200603, June 2006). Data for 2004-2005 school year. Based on average in-state tuition, room and board and fees for full-time students in public four-year institutions for an academic year.