Statement by ABOR Chair Lyndel Manson on Gov. Ducey’s State of the State address

“On behalf of the Arizona Board of Regents, I thank Governor Ducey for his leadership over the past seven years. Throughout his tenure he has demonstrated a keen understanding of the inextricable link between higher education and the economy, as well as the essential role of our public universities as both economic engines and problem-solvers.

“The pandemic once again has highlighted the importance of Arizona State University, Northern Arizona University and the University of Arizona. No other single institution could have taken such a broad role in virus research, development of therapeutics and rapid tests, PPE manufacturing, vaccine distribution and more. 

“But COVID-19 is just one challenge in which our public universities are engaged. ASU, NAU and UArizona are confronting the biggest challenges of our time, whether ensuring healthy forests, identifying water efficiencies or developing the next generation of teachers for Arizona classrooms. 

“None of this is possible without the continued support of Governor Ducey and the Arizona Legislature. Going forward, state leaders are tasked with ensuring Arizona is a place of opportunity where all who strive can get ahead. Via ABOR’s New Economy Initiative, our public universities are focused on workforce development for Arizona’s sectors of strongest growth, including engineering, health care, mining, aerospace and more. And our Arizona Promise scholarship covers the cost of tuition and fees for all qualifying in-state students, guaranteeing cost alone is never an obstacle to getting a higher education. Similarly, we’re proud to support Governor Ducey’s call for the state to waive tuition fees for the spouses of Arizona service members to attend Arizona universities and community colleges. This is an important way we can say ‘thank you’ to these spouses, who’ve served and sacrificed in their own way.

“ABOR looks forward to the governor’s executive budget plan later this week, and to collaborating with his office and legislators in the coming months. The shared challenges we face are many; let’s get to work.”