Issue Position: Higher Education

Issue Position

Our colleges and universities have had a very long and outstanding history in North Carolina, nationally and internationally, as being among the top state-supported higher educational institutions in America.

These educational systems have previously provided exceptional education at a very reasonable cost to both our in-state and out-of-state students. However, the cost of higher education has risen to such a degree that our students and potential students have had to incur considerable debt, or they have been unable to attend. Tuition has increased with the cost of living for our students. The N. C. General Assembly's funding has not kept pace with the needs of our colleges, universities and our students.

Our colleges and universities have been called upon to "tighten their belts," which has been a reasonable call during our most recent "Great Recession." However, now, it is most definitely time for our state office holders to make our educational system one of the state's top and most important priorities from this day forward.

We must maintain our state and national reputation. The only way to do this is to properly fund our institutions of higher education. As Governor, I will present to the N. C. General Assembly a proposed budget that would provide the necessary funds to move higher education to a more affordable level. I will also seek to maintain continued academic excellence throughout the entire university system. Our colleges and universities deserve our respect and support.

Historically Black Colleges and Universities, known as North Carolina's HBCUs, will not be neglected under my Administration. These institutions have a rich and diverse history. They have provided significant educational opportunities for so many of our state's students of all races and nationalities. One of our state's Governors and one of our country's leading astronauts have been graduates of our state's HBCUs. In short, all of our constituent institutions have contributed productively to our state and our Nation, and we all should be proud.

North Carolina pride dictates that "quality" higher education must be assured for our children and adults throughout this state. With this in mind, we have to strive for and achieve the essential increase in funding for all of our constituent colleges and universities throughout North Carolina.

Education is the key and pathway to success for our state and our citizens. We can never let our educational standards and opportunities slip to an "afterthought" position. As Governor, education - from pre-K to K-12, to community colleges, to our 4-year colleges and universities - will always be my top priority. It should also be a key priority for all North Carolinians. Education is OUR future together.

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