We understand the importance of research – how foundational it is to economic growth, technological development and the reputation of a university.
But now is not the time for Gov. Brad Henry to pour $150 million into the EDGE research fund. Now is not the time for Henry to earmark interest from his precious Rainy Day Fund for the purpose of research.
President David Boren sent a campus-wide e-mail last week explaining that the economic turmoil in America is forcing hiring freezes and halts on cost of living raises. A few days earlier the OU Board of Regents approved college and course-specific fee increases.
At a time when economic hardship will make it more difficult for students to attend college, Henry wants to pour money into – research? Research is already sufficiently funded at OU. Pouring more money into it now only helps the rich areas get richer and poor get poorer. It ignores the primary needs of universities statewide. Funding for higher education in general is decreasing, while operating costs are increasing. If the state is going to chip in on higher education, it shouldn’t devote its resources to research endowments.
If the experts are correct, the economic situation won’t be resolved anytime soon. In a time of uncertainty, we think it’s best not to spend in areas that are already sufficiently endowed. More research is not absolutely necessary. It certainly is not necessary enough to warrant a permanent contribution from the state to the endowment.
There should be a focus on keeping college and course specific fees low, and an emphasis on improving faculty pay. Better paychecks will attract more professors than better research toys. Funds should also be used to hire new faculty members.
Let’s put more of an emphasis on what we need the most.
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Charles 3 years, 3 months ago
You've got a really disappointing viewpoint there editorial staff.
Funding research is the kind of long term strategic vision that will ensure our state and our nation's future economic success. Here in Oklahoma we have to start thinking beyond plows and drill bits. Governor Henry is displaying the kind of leadership that we need more of.
mikedavis 3 years, 3 months ago
I'm afraid I have to disagree with your editorial about the permanent funding source Governor Henry is seeking for EDGE. Without a significant commitment to research, education in Oklahoma will lose important research opportunities to other universities accross the country. I am proud of our Higher Education in Oklahoma, and I don't want us to squander our opportunities. Instead of castigating the most education friendly Governor in the state's history, perhaps you should aim your editorial wit at the real culprit, the Oklahoma Legislature. The State Senate and House of Representatives have consistently denied to fully fund the Board of Regent's funding requests year after year.