Jerry Brown took his inauguration oath on Monday to take on the task of running the state of California after a 28-year layoff from the position. But despite previous campaign optimism that public higher education could be returned to its former glory, Brown’s speech reflected dwindling aspirations of living up to his promises.

The California Master Plan for Higher Education turns 50 this year, and continues to be a point of contention for students, politicians, and citizens of the state.

Joint Committee on the Master Plan for Higher Education meets in Sacramento to hear testimonies of invested residents.