Western Illinois University’s preliminary All-Funds Operating Budget projects spending of $182.1 million for Fiscal Year 2027, which begins July 1. That’s a decrease from the current fiscal year’s budget of $189.4 million.
“These adjustments have been made consistent with our enrollment and contractual obligations, and must continue as we bring projected expenses in line with revenues,” Ketra Roselieb, Vice President for Finance and Administration, told the Board of Trustees during its June 16 meeting.
The board approved the preliminary spending plan, and will be asked to approve the final budget in September.
WIU has been reducing spending in recent years as enrollment numbers have declined. The FY 2025 total operating budget called for spending of $200.9 million, and the FY 2024 operating budget was nearly $210 million.
Board Vice Chairperson Carin Stutz said it’s imperative for the university to focus now on increasing enrollment.
“Because we can only cut so far. I think we’re kind of at bare bones as it is right now,” Stutz said.
President Kristi Mindrup believes the university community is coming together and thinking about enrollment holistically.
“I’m really pleased with the momentum we have in preparing and positioning us,” Mindrup said.
“I would also say that we have planned for this moment of enrollment that we are in. We’re sustainable in this moment, and for the numbers that we have in this moment and that we’re projecting for the fall, we’re in a decent spot in this time.”
According to Mindrup, the state of Illinois budget for next fiscal year includes a one-percent increase in operational funding for WIU to $59.1 million.
“We appreciate the continued support of WIU by the Illinois General Assembly and the Governor of Illinois,” Mindrup said in a statement issued to the university community.
Mindrup also said the budget included a statement signaling the release of an additional $1.1 million for WIU in the current fiscal year.
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