University of Arizona responds to concerns about the budget deficit

Fred DuVal, chairman of the Arizona Board of Regents, responds to concerns surrounding the University of Arizona’s budget deficit. 

He said the budget shortfall was due to the university “buying excellence,” which he explained as the university directing money towards areas like research and financial aid. 

DuVal also attributed the shortfall to budget units borrowing against reserves and the arrival of federal money during COVID-19 overshadowing any budget concerns. 

Governor Katie Hobbs expressed her concern for the lack of transparency from the university. She also asked the university to not raise tuition and to bring in a third party auditor. 

DuVal said the university will honor her requests.