UC Regents Discuss Student Concerns Over Tuition Hikes and Disability Policy Changes

The University of California Board meeting held on July 13, 2025, addressed several pressing issues affecting students and staff across the UC system. The meeting featured a series of public comments highlighting concerns about funding, tuition stability, and support for disabled students.

The first speaker, a representative from UCLA, emphasized the importance of continued investment in STEM education. They noted that while retention rates for STEM majors have improved, the future remains uncertain due to federal funding cuts. The speaker urged the board to redirect resources to support students and research initiatives, stressing the negative impact of grant reductions on the scientific workforce.

Maria Reyna Adams, a long-serving librarian at UC San Diego, expressed her distress over a voluntary layoff option presented to her amid a budget shortfall. She raised concerns about the lack of transparency in the decision-making process and the potential financial repercussions of an early retirement. Adams called for a fair approach to pension calculations and urged the board to extend the decision timeline to allow employees adequate time to consider their options.

Leila Hader, president of the Associated Students of UC Riverside, voiced strong opposition to the proposed tuition stability plan. She argued that increasing the tuition cap from 5% to 7% and reducing the return to aid from 45% to 35% would disproportionately affect low-income and first-generation students. Hader urged the board to reconsider these changes, asserting that they would exacerbate financial barriers to higher education.

Jennifer Miyake, a recent UCLA graduate, advocated for improved policies regarding medical leaves for disabled students. She shared her personal experience of being unable to withdraw from classes while undergoing medical treatment, which led to a hospitalization that could have been avoided. Miyake called for the UC system to implement a formal medical leave policy to better support students with disabilities and extenuating circumstances.

The meeting underscored the ongoing challenges faced by students and staff within the UC system, particularly regarding funding, accessibility, and support for vulnerable populations. The board's responses to these concerns will be crucial in shaping the future of the university and its commitment to equity and inclusion.