On December 18, Kevin Gardner, Vice President for Research at Stony Brook University, along with Assistant Vice President for Federal Relations Lauren Brookmeyer, visited Washington, DC. Their objective was to advocate for substantial federal funding for science research in the fiscal year 2026. Gardner engaged with congressional members and staff, Department of Defense officials, and notable Stony Brook alumni in the capital to emphasize the necessity of federal support in advancing scientific innovation and addressing global challenges.
“We are at a pivotal moment in science and innovation. To maintain America’s technological leadership we must prioritize funding that supports a broad range of scientific fields,” stated Gardner. He highlighted the need for strong investments in research to drive critical discoveries impacting national security, healthcare, and the economy.
Gardner's visit coincides with Congress preparing to discuss the FY26 federal budget. He stressed that ongoing investment in research and development is crucial for institutions like Stony Brook University to help the United States remain competitive globally.
“For the U.S. to maintain superiority in the innovation race, particularly in competition with nations like China, robust investments in science and research is non-negotiable,” Gardner emphasized. He warned that delaying investments in areas such as quantum computing, artificial intelligence (AI), and cybersecurity could result in falling behind globally. "America’s future depends on the research breakthroughs we fund today."
The meetings were organized by Stony Brook University's Office for Federal Relations to strengthen relationships with key stakeholders and advance the university's federal priorities.