A 10 percent pay cut was approved as requested by incoming CSU Chancellor Timothy P. White as an example of his support for higher education.

In a letter to the CSU Board of Trustees, White requested the pay cut with understanding that although it will not be enough to cover all that is needed by California Universities, he believes it must be done. Especially with the passing of Proposition 30, White agrees with voters and feels he must follow suit.

“I [also] recognize that Californians expect me to properly steward these resources. Consequently, as I join the faculty, staff and students who have experienced cuts, salary freezes, and increased fees, I too must do my part,” said White.

In July this year, the Board of Trustees approved salary increases to 3 different campus presidents despite student protests. California students have criticized the administration’s decisions to increase tuition, reduce enrollment, cut teachers’ salaries and increase layoffs while executive salaries increase.

“It’s a good step towards rebuilding the CSU system,” said student Darrell Hong, “He recognizes the responsibility to serve the students’ and universities’ best interests.”

Coming into his new position in office, White’s salary was recommended for $421,500 which had already been consented for approval by the CSU Board of Trustees. Now with the pay cut his salary is set at $380,000.

“I think it’s selfless. He wants to do what is best for CSUs and the students,” said transferring Skyline student Vince Chan, “He did what others wouldn’t even consider doing especially during the hard economy California has been facing.”

The passing of Proposition 30 has saved California’s higher education system from $250 million in budget cuts as well as promising about $125 million in additional funding next year. White believes that voters have spoken and he should follow to show suit as an example of solidarity in his support.

“Despite the passage of Proposition 30, there remain grave economic issues to solve in California and the California State University,” White said in a statement. “The success of the measure was the voice of the voters and taxpayers of California to start to reinvest in education.”

White is set to take over as chancellor after current chancellor Charles Reed retires at the end of this year on Dec. 31.