There is no better time than now to be an Ambassador for the University of Minnesota

With Minnesota facing a $5 billion to $7 billion deficit for the 2010-2011 Biennium, the University, which draws one-fourth of its revenue from the state, will take an unavoidable budget cut.  The depths of these cuts will determine the University's ability to remain a strong driver of economic growth, job creation and innovation in Minnesota.

How can you help?
More than ever, legislators need to hear how important the University is to the future of our state.  In the fall of 2009, 5,000+ new freshman and nearly 2,000 transfer students will come to campus expecting a great education and faculty will be conducting research and applying for new research grants.  None of the work of the University will have "gone away;" but the deeper the budget cuts, the fewer employees to deliver and support the educational, research and outreach missions of the University.

As ambassadors for the University, you have strong messages to deliver:

• As an alum and U volunteer, I see the value of this institution every day (Think about your story and how the U has personally impacted your life)
• The University is the economic engine for the state.  Alumni founded businesses employ 1/2 million people and generate over $100 billion in revenue annually
• Over 14,000 degrees are awarded each year, including nearly half of the science, technology, engineering and math graduates
• Faculty brings in over $700 million in research grants annually providing vital innovation and over 25,000 jobs
• U graduates create thousands of jobs and fill thousands of professional positions across the state