Golden State Today

University of California system President Michael Drake engaged in a Campus Conversation event, covering various significant topics related to UC Berkeley and higher education. During the conversation, President Drake highlighted the historical importance and excellence of UC Berkeley, referring to it as the origin of the University of California and a defining entity in the realm of public research universities. He expressed, "Berkeley was where we all started, where the University of California started, and Berkeley really defined for the United States, and in many ways for the world, what it means to be a public research university."

President Drake also praised UC Berkeley, stating, "Cal is one of those rare places that is world-class across the board." The discussion extended to the financial aspects of the UC system, with President Drake addressing the budget concerns and the current state funding situation. He clarified, "Although the state is being squeezed, (this year) the governor has proposed we be held flat, but I just want to make sure (people understand) that our flat budget is $500 million higher than our budget was two years ago."

Regarding the future of the UC system, President Drake expressed confidence in the role of UC campuses as intellectual leaders globally. He emphasized the significance of higher education institutions, stating, "I'm a fan of higher education. I think our higher education institutions are among the greatest assets that this country has over all of these years. I think we're incredibly important to the future of California and this country, but actually to the future of the planet."

President Michael Drake's insights during the Campus Conversation event provided a comprehensive overview of the UC system's direction, emphasizing the pivotal position of UC Berkeley and the broader significance of higher education for California and beyond.