Important campus update regarding letter from President Drake

March 19, 2025

UC President Michael V. Drake announced (link is external)today that steps will be taken to reduce costs across the UC system. The steps include a systemwide hiring freeze and consideration of other general cost-containment strategies. We understand this announcement may raise concerns and questions; I therefore want to assure you that we will soon provide specific, actionable guidance.

At the moment, there is no requirement to make any operational changes or decisions.

We will provide specifics on next steps after close consultation with academic and administrative leaders, including the Academic Senate. We will also communicate any and all decisions and changes as promptly as possible.

Sincerely,

Richard K. Lyons
Chancellor

Benjamin E. Hermalin
Executive Vice Chancellor and Provost

This message was sent to all UC Berkeley staff, faculty and academics.