Governor Brian Kemp has presented his recommendations for the amended Fiscal Year 2026 and Fiscal Year 2027 state budgets, with significant funding proposed for the University System of Georgia and the University of Georgia (UGA). The proposals were announced during Kemp’s final State of the State address.
The governor’s budget includes several measures aimed at supporting affordability, student opportunity, workforce development, and strategic investment in public higher education. Among these is a one-time $2,000 salary supplement for all full-time, regular state employees, totaling $104.9 million.
UGA President Jere W. Morehead expressed appreciation for the governor’s continued support. “On behalf of the faculty, staff, and students of the University of Georgia, I want to thank Governor Kemp for his strong and steadfast support,” said Morehead. “The governor’s amended FY26 and FY27 budget proposals would strengthen UGA’s ability to fulfill its critical mission while making higher education more accessible for generations of future students throughout Georgia. UGA is grateful for the governor’s vision, and we look forward to advocating for these proposals throughout the legislative session.”
For students facing financial need, one notable proposal is $325 million allocated to provide matching endowment funds for the DREAMS Scholarship Program within the University System of Georgia. This program is designed to complement existing merit-based scholarships by covering essential college expenses beyond tuition.
Additional funding recommendations include $9.5 million in new formula funding as startup capital for UGA’s School of Medicine and another $11.43 million earmarked for equipment and other initial needs at the school. The budget also proposes $5.6 million to design a facility for a new UGA School of Nursing.
Ryan Nesbit, vice president for finance and administration at UGA, commented on these investments: “The governor’s proposed budget provides important resources for the university’s core operations. These investments will help students, faculty and staff while allowing the university to manage growth responsibly.”
Another major allocation is $34.5 million to advance phase four of UGA’s Science and Ag Hill modernization project. This ongoing effort aims to renovate and expand laboratory spaces to promote growth in STEM education and research at UGA.
Phase three of this modernization project is currently underway in Cedar Street Building A and will open in January 2027. It features construction of a new instructional hub in what was formerly Poultry Sciences Building’s south wing as well as dedicated space in its north wing for the Institute of Integrated Precision Agriculture.
Other elements in Kemp’s proposal include $3 million to purchase equipment for use in the former poultry building and $5 million designated toward renovating what was previously known as Environmental Health Sciences building.
Blake Raulerson, vice president for government relations at UGA, noted: “The governor’s budget recommendations outline several priorities that will shape conversations at the Capitol in the weeks ahead. We will be actively engaged with lawmakers throughout the session to discuss how these proposals align with the University of Georgia’s needs and the state’s long-term goals.”
Finally, Kemp has recommended an additional $40 million be added to major repair and rehabilitation funds across Georgia’s university system—supplementing an existing base budget amounting to $65.9 million—to address infrastructure maintenance requirements.
These recommendations now move forward to consideration by members of Georgia’s General Assembly as part of their standard budgeting process. University officials plan continued engagement with legislators regarding investments intended to enhance student outcomes, innovation initiatives, and UGA’s broader economic impact on Georgia.
