Chancellor's Message

Dear UC Irvine Parents,

As you know, California is facing unprecedented budget challenges and the state's higher education system has been hit especially hard. I would like to thank you for your understanding and patience as we negotiate these difficult circumstances.

The University of California is working diligently to manage a staggering $813 million funding shortfall; UC Irvine's portion of this nearly $80 million. This gap is being addressed through faculty and staff furloughs/pay cuts, operating budget cuts, student fee increases and other measures. We expect additional repercussions until this economic crisis passes.

In the coming weeks and months, UC will continue to impress upon the Governor and Legislature that our students' education is key to a healthy economic future for our state and nation.

It is hard to imagine beginning the academic year under more challenging circumstances. However, as it has for the past 45 years, UCI is coming alive with the sounds and excitement of fall quarter. It is an uplifting reminder of our commitment to protecting your investment in your student's education.

We want parents to have much up-to-date information as possible about the evolving budget situation and how we are dealing with it as we move forward. Two websites you may find helpful are the UC Budget News website and the UC Irvine Budget News and Information website.

I want to assure you that our highest priority is sustaining and advancing a quality educational experience for all of our students. We greatly appreciate your suggestions and support.

Chancellor Michael V. Drake, M.D.