UC President Drake responds to Trump’s executive order on federal funding
A judge blocked an order on Jan. 28 from the Federal Office of Management and Budget to put a temporary pause on federal grants. Before the judge halted the order, UC President Michael V. Drake responded to the decision.
In accordance with the judge’s action, the funding freeze will be halted until Feb. 3. The White House clarified that programs like Medicare, Medicaid, Social Security, Supplemental Nutrition Assistance Programs (S.N.A.P.), federal student loans and pell grants will not be affected.
University of California (UC) President Michael V. Drake, who is stepping down this year, made an official statement expressing general uncertainty regarding the federal freeze before a judge halted the order.
“The memo is broad and it is not yet possible to know the full extent of its implications. We do know that it directs each agency to ensure their grants and loan programs are consistent with President Donald Trump’s executive orders,” Drake said in the statement.
He said that UC leaders, UC Legal and the UC federal relations teams are working to “clarify the potential impacts” of the memo and the Trump administration’s executive actions.
“We are in contact with key policymakers in Congress and at federal agencies, as well as association partners and other higher education institutions,” he continued. “We are evaluating what actions we are able to take and will keep you informed.”
More specific information related to federal financial aid and the research enterprise will be shared with campus leaders as it becomes available, he said.
“This is an uncertain time for many and while we don’t yet know what lies ahead, we remain steadfast in our values, our mission, and our commitment to caring for and supporting our entire community,” Drake said. “I encourage you and affected members of our community to make use of available support resources on our campuses.”
UC Merced fundraising breaks public funding record for third year
Give to UC Merced, the University’s annual year-end fundraising campaign, raised nearly $1.47 million from 647 donors, according to UC Merced Public Relations. The campaign was the most successful in its 11-year history and broke its own record for the third year.
Each year, UC Merced launches a fundraiser on Giving Tuesday, the worldwide day of charitable giving, for three months. University alumni, parents, faculty and staff provide philanthropic funding for campus priorities outlined each year.
Fundraising consisted of $524,000 for academics and research, $374,000 for scholarships and fellowships, $213,000 for student success and $207,00 for medical education.
“This year set a new record!” Vice Chancellor and Chief External Relations Officer Ed Klotzbier said according to UC Merced Public Relations. “Thank you to all those who believe in the potential of our students, our campus and in UC Merced. We are grateful to be moving Boldly Forward together.”
A version of this article appeared on p. 2 of the Jan. 30, 2025 edition of the Daily Nexus.