University of Louisville President James Ramsey says his institution and higher education in general face an uncertain future as long as government funding continues to be slashed.Ramsey delivered his annual State of the University address today.He says while U of L has seen growth over the past year at its Belknap, Shelby and Health Sciences campuses, there have been some setbacks, including another cut in state funding that forced a tuition increase.Ramsey says he’s also disappointed that a planned merger of U of L Hospital with two other health care entities last year was quashed by Governor Steve Beshear.In his nearly 25 minute address, Ramsey promised faculty members that he would lead an effort to improve communication with them, especially on budget issues."We pledge to you that we will do better, listening to you more intently than we have in the past, so we do not forget challenges, issues and problems that you face daily. We’ve scheduled campus forums in the weeks ahead to begin this process," he said. Ramsey says despite the financial uncertainty, he’s confident that U of L’s best years are still ahead.