The recent economic downturn has had a serious effect on public higher education, and problems will linger for some years hence. The impact of this disinvestment has been particularly severe for the University of California. The dramatic decrease in state funding has necessitated large relative increases in education and registration fees for our students--over 43% over 15 months. However, while weathering this downward trend there are many reasons why we must remain optimistic and visionary about the future. Kinesiology must continue to go forward against this background of uncertainty by also remaining relevant, accountable and maintaining access to high quality. Of equal importance is assuring that the learning environment produces graduates who can live, work, compete, and prosper in a global society and economy.