As a parent in Maryland, I’m deeply concerned about what’s happening to our public universities—and what it means for our children.

The University System of Maryland is facing a 7% funding cut this year, and officials have warned that tuition increases, layoffs, and program cuts are likely across multiple campuses. For families like mine who are already stretching to afford college, this news is devastating.

This isn’t just about numbers. It’s about real students being priced out, real faculty losing their jobs, and entire departments being downsized or shuttered.

The federal cuts that triggered this crisis were beyond our control. But how Maryland responds—that’s up to us.

That’s why I’m calling on Governor Wes Moore and the Maryland General Assembly to use state reserves or emergency funds to help public universities avoid tuition hikes and layoffs.

Offer temporary bridge funding so campuses can continue serving students while federal funding is restored; prioritize equity, affordability, and student support in all education budget decisions.

As a parent, I want to know that Maryland will stand up for its students—and protect their access to affordable, high-quality public education.