Statement of Vermont State Colleges (VSC) Chancellor Elizabeth Mauch on Governor Phil Scott’s Fiscal Year 2026 Budget Proposal
The following statement is from VSC Chancellor Elizabeth Mauch regarding Governor Phil Scott’s Fiscal Year 2026 budget proposal and ongoing legislative support for system transformation:
“The Vermont State College system’s focus is to ensure that every Vermonter, regardless of age, income or location, has access to high-quality education and training. Building on this foundational mission, we are committed to meeting workforce needs, driving economic growth, and preparing learners at every stage of life for the opportunities of tomorrow. Our transformation over the last five years, undergone in partnership with the Legislature and Governor, has positioned the VSC for long-term financial stability and sustainability. We are grateful for their continued support.
“The Governor’s proposed Fiscal Year 2026 budget, as outlined today, includes investments that are essential to securing our future and building on our progress to date. These include:
- $52.4 million in our annual appropriation, including a modest inflationary increase over FY2025;
- $5 million in essential transformation dollars – the last installment of the 5-year commitment made by the Legislature and Governor in 2021; and,
- funding for student affordability initiatives, financial aid, and workforce development offerings administered by our partners, including VSAC and the Vermont Department of Labor.
“As we continue our forward momentum, we will stay focused on enrollment growth, especially in our programs that address acute workforce challenges, enhancing our partnerships with Vermont employers, and modernizing our campuses and learning locations to meet the demands of today’s learners.
“We are deeply grateful for the support of the Governor and Legislature, which has been instrumental in our progress. We look forward to continued partnership now and in the years to come.”