By Alexis Gary

Governor Rick Scott is proposing $460 million for performance funding for all state universities and colleges, which includes Florida A&M University in the 2015-2016 “Keep Florida Working” budget.

If approved, universities and colleges will see a significant increase in the amount of money they receive from the state.

Governor Scott’s proposal increases in last year’s performance fund by $260 million.

“We are working to increase the quality of education our students receive so they have the resources they need to find a job and pursue their dreams when they graduate. That is why we are rewarding our universities and colleges that focus on preparing students for great careers,” Gov. Scott said.

It is not yet known how much money FAMU could receive in the 2015-2016 budget, but Last year performance funds for the university totaled $7.2 million. FAMU used that money to revamp its Office of Undergraduate Student Success and purchase a new computer software program that connects advisors and students in need of help, as well as helping to recruit and retain faculty for the pharmacy school.

The schools receive money based on the percentage of graduates employed or continuing education, average wages of graduates, and cost per undergraduate degrees. These are all aspects that are measured based on the Board of Governor’s performance funding model.

“The Board of Governors is working to ensure we have all the right incentives and resources in place for student success,” State University System Chancellor Marshall Criser III said. “Now the universities have taken that ball and are running with it.”

“We are investing in the future success of our students. “We want to make sure that they are engaged, have a productive academic experience and are prepared to be valuable contributors to Florida’s workforce,” FAMU president Elmira Mangum, said.

The legislature will vote on the budget during the legislative session that begins on March 3.