An Argument for the Return of State Operating Aid

Faculty Colleagues, Greetings,

Did you know that the reinstatement of state operating funds was the district’s only legislative priority this year? The district made a concerted effort, and the Faculty Association also contributed to the cause. Unfortunately, the budget was just signed by Governor Hobbs, and once again, there is not a single penny of operating aid for our district. Back in 2008, we received more than $68 million dollars from the state. In 2015, it was zeroed out entirely.

We’re working hard to change that, and while we weren’t successful this year, we’ve already begun the effort for next year’s budget. Stacy Smith, Pam Duty, and I coauthored an opinion piece for the Arizona Republic that was published yesterday – Underfunding Maricopa Community Colleges Hurts State (log in with MEID). The piece calls for a return of state aid, and it demonstrates the tremendous impact of our work for our students and communities across the state. Please share this message widely.

We hope this summer is restful and rejuvenating. Even during these summer months, know that the Faculty Association and the Faculty Executive Council continue to work for the interests of all faculty across the district.

Best Regards,

Matt Jolly, FEC/FA President
Stacy Smith, FEC/FA Past President
Pam Duty, FEC/FA President-Elect