Dear Editor:

The U of M is our state's academic leader. Nearly half of all science, technology, engineering and math degrees in Minnesota are awarded by the U. Two-thirds of all state dentists, doctors, nurses, physical therapists and veterinarians get their degrees from the U. The U is attracting better prepared students, and demand for a U degree is rising--over 32,000 people are expected to apply for 5,200 freshman slots next year, up from 29,000 applications.

I'm worried about the state budget picture and what it could mean for future generations of U students. I've seen proposals to reduce higher ed funding dramatically, plugging the hole for two years with federal stimulus dollars that can't be used for ongoing costs. The U is planning ahead to shield students from these budget outcomes, but keeping costs down and quality up in this situation will be incredibly difficult.

It can't be easy for state leaders to balance the budget this year, but that's why we've chosen them--to look out for our top priorities and make good decisions. Higher education is one of those priorities--we need a state budget that preserves both access and quality at the U of M.

Sincerely,