Appropriations Update:
Having finally passed the FY18 omnibus appropriations package, Congress’ attention is now turning to FY19. President Claire E. Sterk recently sent a letter, to Members of the Georgia congressional delegation, highlighting Emory’s partnership with the federal government. In FY17, Emory received $384 million in federal research funding, while also investing, of our own resources, over $151 million to help support research across the university. Emory students received $143 million in federal financial aid; and Emory contributed over $304 million to financially support our students. For a copy of the letter, please e-mail Jessica Davis, Director of Federal Affairs (jessica.ann.davis@emory.edu).
The Georgia congressional delegation has been supportive of Emory’s priorities. For example, both Senators signed on to a recent letter supporting FY19 funding for the National Institutes of Health (NIH); and several Members have submitted funding requests for Emory projects, like the National Ebola Training and Education Center and our Public Health Training Center. After the budget hearing process concludes, appropriators will begin the process of writing and passing individual appropriations bills before FY18 funding expires on September 30, 2018. It is highly unlikely that all twelve of the appropriations bills will pass by the deadline. Therefore, we expect to see either an omnibus or a continuing resolution. President Trump states that he is unwilling to sign another large omnibus package; this may lead to complications in September.
Staffers on Campus:
Congressional district work periods allow us the opportunity to host staffers on campus. We just had three staffers on campus to learn more about Emory. Waverly Gordon, professional staff member of the House Energy and Commerce Committee, spoke with students and faculty at the Rollins School of Public Health, toured many of Emory’s research and hospital facilities, and met with Dr. Jon Lewin and Dr. David Stephens. Olivia Dickey, healthcare staffer for Representative Buddy Carter (R-GA), toured Emory’s Serious Communicable Disease Unit. As Congressman Carter and the Energy and Commerce Committee work on the Pandemic and All Hazards Preparedness Act, we are glad to show off Emory’s unique role in preparedness. Finally, Michael Black, from Senator Isakson’s office, visited campus to learn more about the Emory Advantage Program and other financial aid opportunities that Emory offers its students. He also learned about the new chemistry program and toured the Atwood Chemistry Building. The OGCA team thanks everyone across campus who contributes to making these visits a success! | 
