Kansas State University

News release prepared by: Greg Tammen, 785-532-4486, gtammen@k-state.edu

Friday, Jan. 20, 2012

University officials comment on funding announcement in State of the State Address

MANHATTAN -- On Jan. 11, Kansas Gov. Sam Brownback announced $5 million in proposed new funding for Kansas State University's College of Veterinary Medicine.

The funding supports increased animal health research at the university, and is anticipated to bolster the Kansas economy and affirm the state as an innovator in the nation's animal health industry.

"We appreciate Gov. Brownback's continued support of higher education and for backing new opportunities for universities to help in the state's economic development," said Kirk Schulz, university president. "As a recognized leader in the animal health field, Kansas State University looks forward to returning that support to Kansas through increased research and discoveries that grow the economy and advance the profession. We anticipate further state benefits as the College of Veterinary Medicine climbs even higher in national rankings, as K-State moves forward to becoming a top 50 public research university by 2025, and as we continue collaborations with the Manhattan-based federal laboratories and the Animal Health Corridor."

Additionally, allocations will fund increased research capacity and opportunities at the College of Veterinary Medicine.

"There is unprecedented opportunity for the College of Veterinary Medicine at this time," said Ralph Richardson, the college's dean. "We have a responsibility to address the work force and research needs as determined by K-State's visionary 2025 initiative and Gov. Brownback's goal to grow the Kansas animal health industry. Whether it's directly benefiting through an enhanced veterinary medical profession or through the improvements in the economic climate of our state, K-State will create a better quality of life for all Kansans."

To read the Kansas Board of Regents' statement about the governor's fiscal year 2013 budget, visit http://www.kansasregents.org/board_responds_to_the_governor_s_fiscal_year_2013_budget.