University presidents discuss state funding

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Dr. James Ramsey, Dr. Eli Capilouto

University of Louisville President Dr. James Ramsey, left, and University of Kentucky President Dr. Eli Capilouto share a laugh prior to their testimony before the Kentucky House Review Subcommittee on Postsecondary Education Thursday Feb. 2, 2012 in Frankfort, Ky. Gov. Steve Beshear has proposed cutting higher education by 6.4 percent, rather than the 8 percent other state agencies face.( AP Photo/ John Flavell)

Thu, 2012-02-02 04:01

The presidents of the state's research universities discussed with lawmakers how they are dealing with nearly $29 million in combined state budget cuts.

University of Kentucky President Eli Capilouto and University of Louisville President James Ramsey testified Thursday before the House Subcommittee on Postsecondary Education to discuss their funding needs and what their institutions are doing to generate income and cut costs.

Capilouto said UK has achieved $118 million in savings since 2001-2002 with measures such as implementing a wellness program for employees and avoiding duplication of expenses and will continue to work on achieving savings.

Ramsey said U of L has a $1 billion private fundraising goal and, like UK, hopes to generate much greater income through research.

Because of the recession, the state has to cut spending.