KU continues to be economic development engine, Chancellor Girod tells legislators

1/27/2025 -- The University of Kansas continues to be an economic development engine and talent magnet for the state, Chancellor Douglas Girod told Kansas legislators today.

The chancellor visited with the House Committee on Higher Education Budget to provide an overview of how KU drives economic growth and provides crucial healthcare resources to Kansas citizens. The discussion included KU’s efforts to address workforce needs, launch startup companies, develop new drugs and technologies, and create jobs.

The chancellor also discussed KU’s recent enrollment success and efforts to cut its budget and responsibly steward state funding. He also emphasized that additional state funding is needed to counter inflation and address infrastructure needs.

Chancellor Girod closed his presentation by encouraging the committee to support funding that empowers KU to better serve students and Kansans. First and foremost, for this year’s budget, KU is asking the Legislature for stable base funding to enable KU to keep tuition steady and ensure students have the support they need to succeed.

Additionally, KU is asking for funding for the following initiatives:

• Expansion of the Kansas Medical Student Loan Program, which provides loans to students who agree to practice medicine in Kansas after residency
• Enhancements to university IT infrastructure and cybersecurity
• Recruitment and retention of research faculty in areas that drive the Kansas economy such as engineering, cancer and brain health
• Construction of a new School of Architecture & Design building

View video of the chancellor’s presentation and download his presentation slide deck.