On July 26, 2016, President Thomas issued an update to the University Community with regards to the actions in Springfield. This address here is positive news. You can read the full letter included below. Dear University Community,
We are pleased that the Governor and Legislators came to an agreement that provides funding for higher education. Senate Bill 2047, which passed on June 30, 2016, provides bridge funding for Illinois higher education. Western Illinois University received its first allocation of approximately $5.5 million.
The state has a budget schedule to release funding over the remainder of the calendar year. Western’s total portion of the bridge funding is $31.4 million, plus an additional $5.1 million to reimburse the University for the MAP grants that we provided to our students in Spring 2016.
Resolution of the continuing state budget impasse will ensure that Western Illinois University will continue its proud tradition of providing students a quality and well-rounded education. Moreover, Western will continue to support the University’s annual economic impact of $473 million to our immediate 16-county service region.
While these are fiscally challenging times, the University continues to move ahead. Together, we will continue to build an even stronger and better University. Thank you for your hard work, commitment, and dedication to Western Illinois University.
Sincerely,
Jack Thomas
President
