In this episode of Policy Chats, Host Dori Pham and Paula Omokhomion joins California State Treasurer Fiona Ma for a thoughtful conversation about how the state’s financial decisions shape the future of public higher education and economic opportunity.

Throughout this episode, Treasurer Ma explains how financial planning during economic downturns can protect students and families from rising tuition costs. She also shares how universities can partner with private companies to expand student housing, create internship pipelines, and provide students with more stable pathways to employment. With California currently facing a budget deficit, this conversation offers insight into how the state can continue to invest in students while staying financially resilient.

Treasurer Ma also reflects on the importance of keeping high quality jobs in California and ensuring that future state revenue is strong enough to support public institutions like the University of California and California State University systems. Her message underscores the role of strategic planning, savings, and innovation in creating long term prosperity for all Californians.

This episode highlights how financial policy is not just about numbers, but about people, opportunity, and the future of education. Tune in to hear how Treasurer Ma is working to create lasting change in California and beyond.

Topics Covered

• What the California State Treasurer’s Office does and why it matters

• How state funding supports UC and CSU campuses

• The impact of budget deficits on higher education and strategies to manage them

• Student housing challenges and how public private partnerships can help

• Ways to reduce student debt through savings programs and smarter investments

• How to retain high paying industries and jobs in California

• Inflation, tariffs, and the role of the federal government in stabilization

• The importance of economic planning for long term prosperity and equity

  
  

📍 This episode is produced by the UCR School of Public Policy and reflects our mission of creating solutions that improve lives locally and globally.

🎧 Guest Speaker: Fiona Ma, California State Treasurer

Interviewed by: Dori Pham, Host of Policy Chats and Paula Omokhomion

🎵 Music by Vir Sinha
🔗 Learn more: spp.ucr.edu/podcast
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