President Emmert has continually emphasized the importance the state budget holds for higher education these past two quarters.

Last week, he saw major progress in accomplishing his goal in passing Governor Chris Gregiore's budget proposal for higher education.

"The legislature is on track in Olympia," he said.

"The House of Higher Education Sub-Committee brought out their budget for higher education, and it was consistent with the governor's budget."

As winter quarter draws to a close, for the past two weeks Emmert kept his schedule full as he traveled across the United States on donor calls and met with legislators on the state and national budget for higher education.

Feb. 20, which was Higher Education Day, Emmert met with UW alumni and legislators during a lobbying event that occurs once every other year.

"It was a good day in Olympia," he said. "It was very well attended, and we were able to deliver a good message to all the politicians."

After he attended various meetings with colleagues and staff at the UW, Feb. 22 Emmert began on his travel-intensive schedule by flying to Southern California to attend a donor event.

"I had dinner and luncheon meetings with prospective donors," he said. "I talked about future opportunities with the University and the meetings went really well."

Emmert also attended other donor events held in Phoenix, Ariz. and Palm Springs, Calif. from Feb. 23-25.

Without taking a break, Emmert took a flight to Washington, D.C. and met with the Washington State Congressional Delegation on the upcoming national budget for higher education.

"I had very good meetings with all of our congressional members," he said. "I think the Washington state legislature is doing a very good job representing us."

Flying back to Seattle Feb. 28, Emmert returned to the UW on the same day to introduce the annual faculty lecture by Professor John Toews.

As his schedule wound down, Emmert remained on campus and attended routine administration meetings and the UW Faculty Senate meeting as well.

Emmert later attended more administration meetings, but also recognized outstanding UW scholars.

"I enjoy awarding some of our most outstanding students," he said. "It's great fun to recognize students for their wonderful accomplishments."

Concluding his two-week schedule yesterday, Emmert took a slight break from his schedule to attend an auction held on behalf of the UW Rome Center Program.

"The Rome Center is such a popular program for students and faculty to study overseas," he said. "But it is always a challenge to raise money to support the program."

As students prepare for finals during the next two weeks and spring break, Emmert is preparing to work on progressing three projects before the start of spring break.

"We will continue with fundraising programs, especially Students First," he said. "We will also have a full budget proposal by the House of Representatives in Olympia to work on, and will put in our proposal for the UW Global Health Institute with the Gates Foundation."

Reach reporter Nathan Lee at news@thedaily.washington.edu.