'UC Day' Event In Sacramento Has Green Tint

University of California alumni and state legislators gathered in Sacramento yesterday for UC Day, a two-day event to recognize legislators and research contributions, and to address concerns facing the UC system.

The annual event, held over the last two days with the theme "UC Goes Green," offered alumni the chance to bring local concerns to lawmakers.

The UC Alumni Association honored state Sen. Jack Scott and state Assemblymember John Laird as the 2008 Legislators of the Year for their longtime support of California higher education, said Mark Chekal-Bain, the director of advocacy for the UC Office of the President.

In addition to honoring the legislators, the event also showcased solutions for sustainability as proposed by the respective campuses.

"It is very clear some people think we have significant global warming, and everyone agrees there are energy problems," Chekal-Bain said.

A tent housed booths for each campus and other groups to display their green research projects. UC Berkeley showcased a wireless sensor system that could be used by PG&E and other energy providers, according to the event's Web site.

UC alumni also had an opportunity to sit down with state legislators to discuss the needs and concerns facing UC, particularly Gov. Arnold Schwarzenegger's proposed 10 percent budget cuts to all state programs. If put into effect, the governor's budget would cut a net total of about $110 million from the university.

"I am deeply concerned about how the cuts will affect our ability to invest in worthwhile institutions like the UC," said UC student Regent Ben Allen.

Students had rallied in front of the state capitol on Monday against the potential fee increases suggested in order to cope with the budget crisis, with many saying the increases were a large concern at the event.

"When looking at making budget cut decisions, higher education can't be on the chopping block," said Jessica Dunning, deputy director of communication for Lt. Governor John Garamendi.

Both Allen and Chekal-Bain encouraged students and alumni to continue vocalizing their concerns.

"We hope that alumni continue to tell the UC story for years to come, certainly encourage students to join the alumni association," Chekal-Bain said. "People in Sacramento need to hear from them."

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