Macomb, IL – The president of Western Illinois University hopes his latest letter to the campus community will quell concerns.
Al Goldfarb points out the state faces a large budget deficit and will be looking for places to cut. But so far, the state has not asked higher education to return more money beyond the 2.5% it cut last fall.
Goldfarb also says new Governor Pat Quinn and legislative leaders have indicated higher education is important. "I think there is great awareness that higher education is an economic engine, that it's extremely important in terms of economic growth and hopefully economic redevelopment," says Goldfarb.
Goldfarb says WIU is working to protect its employees and the programs it offers students. The letter states Western's primary goals continue to be providing quality academic programs and education resources to students and retaining all employees.
Goldfarb also says WIU is aggressively marketing itself. He says about half of the university's revenue now comes from tuition, which means it's important to maintain enrollment levels.
Goldfarb remains worried about what's referred to as the "privatization of public higher education." The state is providing less and less money for colleges and universities. As a result, the schools are expected to find other income sources.
In addition, it's been years since the state provided money for construction and maintenance. Goldfarb says deferred maintenance has become one of the top three concerns for WIU. The other top priorities are construction of a performing arts center in Macomb and development of the new Quad Cities campus.
Goldfarb elaborated on his letter to the campus community with News Director Rich Egger. You can listen to that conversation by clicking on the audio button.
More about the state's plans for higher education will be unveiled when Governor Quinn delivers his budget message on Wednesday March 18. Tri States Public Radio will broadcast the speech live beginning at noon.