All West Virginians will benefit from the $50 million higher education research trust fund Governor Joe Manchin announced in tonight’s State of the State address, according to the head of the state’s Higher Education Policy Commission (HEPC).
The research trust fund proposed by Manchin is a major economic initiative designed to stimulate business development, create better jobs and a higher standard of living, and facilitate West Virginia’s transition to a knowledge economy. The program is patterned after successful funds in other states that match state dollars with private donations to encourage university research and leverage private giving.
"This is truly a bold and historic step for West Virginia," said Dr. Brian Noland, HEPC chancellor. "I applaud Governor Manchin for his vision and commitment to leading our state forward.
"Building the research programs at our universities will not only enable us to become competitive in the 21st century economy and lead to high-wage jobs in emerging industries, but will also allow us to provide enhanced educational opportunities for West Virginians. We all want our children and grandchildren to get good educations and have well-paying, secure jobs available right here at home when they graduate. It’s a win-win situation."
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