Tallahassee, FL (July 2, 2025) – Chancellor Rodrigues and the Board of Governors commended Governor Ron DeSantis and the Florida Legislature’s continued investment in the State University System of Florida through the 2025-26 Fiscal Year Budget. The budget provides $3.9 billion in operating funds for the State University System.
“Thanks to the leadership of Governor DeSantis, the support of the Florida Legislature, and the dedication of our university presidents, Florida remains the national leader for higher education,” said Chancellor Ray Rodrigues. “This year’s budget builds on that momentum with a strong investment in performance-based funding that reflects our commitment to excellence and accountability. By rewarding institutions for achieving key outcomes, we’re ensuring that taxpayer dollars drive real results for students, families, and the state’s economy.”
“It’s a privilege to serve as chair of the Florida Board of Governors during a time when our state continues to set the national standard for higher education,” said Brian Lamb, Chair of the Florida Board of Governors. “Thanks to the vision of Governor DeSantis and the Florida Legislature, this year’s budget strengthens our commitment to student success, research excellence, and workforce alignment. With continued investments in Performance-Based Funding and innovative programs like PIPELINE and LINE, Florida is delivering exceptional value for students and families.”
With the 2025-26 budget, Florida continues to invest in excellence, solidifying its standing as the nation’s premier state for higher education:
- The budget again invests $645 million for Performance-Based Funding to ensure students are receiving the highest quality education.
- An additional $40 million investment in Florida’s preeminent universities will help drive ongoing academic and research achievements.
- To further strengthen nursing education, the budget includes $46 million for PIPLEINE and LINE:
- $40 million for the PIPELINE Program (Prepping Institutions, Programs, Employers, and Learners through Incentives for Nursing Education), which rewards performance and excellence in nursing education programs at state universities.
- $6 million for the LINE Program (Linking Industry to Nursing Education), designed to encourage partnerships between nursing education programs and healthcare providers.
- An additional $212 million was provided for specific university enhancements, and $421 million was received for 35 university fixed capital outlay projects
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About the State University System of Florida and the Board of Governors
The State University System of Florida is a constitutional body led by the 17-member Board of Governors. The System has 12 universities and more than 430,000 students, making it the second-largest public university system in the nation. Florida has held the top spot in U.S. News & World Report for higher education since the inception of the rankings in 2017. Responsibilities include defining the distinctive mission of each institution and managing the System’s coordination and operation. The Board appoints a Chancellor who serves as the System’s chief executive. For more information, visit flbog.edu or follow us on X, LinkedIn, Instagram and Facebook.