After five scientists affiliated with the University of California recently won Nobel prizes, U.C. President James Milliken said it was a testament not just to the U.C. system but “the long-standing partnership between our federal government and our universities, and our country’s ability to attract the best and brightest from around the world.” 

But today, he says, funding cuts are threatening this tradition of innovation, which has produced breakthroughs like disease cures, cell phones, and the internet. Meanwhile, the ongoing immigration crackdown is hindering university efforts to attract top talent. 

Federal funding cutbacks and a U.S. “brain drain” are among the many challenges facing higher education leaders like Milliken, who took office as the 22nd president of U.C. in August. He oversees a system comprised of 10 campuses, six medical schools, three national laboratories, and nearly 300,000 students. 

Milliken, who has three decades of experience serving in leadership roles at large institutions. came to U.C. from the University of Texas, where he served as chancellor from 2018–2025. 

He joins Commonwealth Club World Affairs to talk about his vision for the university and his top priorities.