University Of California Announces Systemwide Hiring Freeze To Manage Cost

Study in US: Michael V. Drake, M.D. the President of the University of California has said through a message that the university will freeze hiring to manage the cost.

The University of California President Michael V. Drake, M.D. has written to the university's students and staff and announced a system-wide hiring freeze to manage cost amid the sharp federal funding cuts.

He said that due to proposed policy changes in the US and the signing of various executive orders by US President Trump, threats are looming for education support, patient care and lifesaving research. Also, the 2025-26 California state budget is likely to see a significant cut to the budget assigned to the University of California. These developments will profoundly impact the University of California which is a research-focused public institution in the nation.

He said that while the university will collaborate with federal and state officials on the university's priorities and the legal team of the university is ready for this moment, we will try all advocacy options we have and will take appropriate actions accordingly moving forward.

"First, we will implement a systemwide hiring freeze to help the University manage costs and conserve funds. I have directed every UC location, including the Office of the President, to prepare financial strategies and workforce management plans that address any potential shortfalls. I have also directed all UC locations to implement cost-saving measures, such as delaying maintenance and reducing business travel where possible. Because every UC location is different, these plans will vary accordingly. But regardless of UC location, every action that impacts our University and our workforce will only be taken after serious and deliberative consideration," reads the letter.

Trump Freezes $175 Million Of Federal Funding To Penn

The White House announced the freezing of $175 million of federal funding to the University of Pennsylvania for its policies on transgender athletes.

The White House has posted a Fox Business clip on X which reads, "President Trump has promised to protect female athletes. He has threatened to rip federal funding away from any university that defies his executive order banning biological males from infiltrating women's sports. And he is doing it."

While responding to this, Penn said that they were not aware of it. The university said in a statement, "We are aware of media reports suggesting a suspension of $175 million in federal funding to Penn, but have not yet received any official notification or any details."

"It is important to note, however, that Penn has always followed NCAA and Ivy League policies regarding student participation on athletic teams. We have been in the past, and remain today, in full compliance with the regulations that apply not only to Penn, but all of our NCAA and Ivy League peer institutions," it said.

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• Trump Signs Order To Shut Down US Education Department