Letter To Editor: Adequate and Equitable University Funding Guarantees Regional Economic Success

EDWARDSVILLE/GLEN CARBON - Public universities develop and nurture the workforce of the future and are critical to our state's economic growth. Institutions like Southern Illinois University Edwardsville prepare students for successful careers in nursing, education, health, business, neuroscience, and engineering, who contribute to the economy and shape the world.

SIUE has a remarkable economic impact throughout the state and region. The university generates over $1.3 billion in economic impact, including supporting 12,178 jobs. In addition, it contributes more than $144 million in taxes, and $516 million through alumni, with operations alone adding roughly $637 million to the local economy.

To sustain its contributions to regional economic growth, SIUE needs adequate funding, predictability and stability to support student success and its local community. That is why I support the Adequate and Equitable Public University Funding Act (SB13/HB1581) which will establish a need-based model for public university funding.

With improved and equitable funding, SIUE will be able to lower tuition, provide scholarships and support services for better graduation outcomes for students, especially those from underserved backgrounds who will subsequently contribute to Illinois’ economic development.

The impact of equitable university funding goes beyond campus and extends to our communities. It is time for lawmakers to pass the Adequate and Equitable Public University Funding Act to guarantee the success of all public universities across our state.

Kyle Anderson is the Executive Director of the Leadership Council Southwestern Illinois

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