Western Illinois University is critical to our regional economy, driving economic growth by developing a skilled workforce, fueling innovation through research, and anchoring local business investment.
We urge members of the General Assembly to vote in favor of SB13/HB1581, as equitable funding will provide all universities with the predictability and stability needed to support the success of students, our community, and our state.
This additional investment in higher education will result in more students graduating in Illinois each year, generating an estimated $5.3 billion in economic investment in towns and cities across Illinois.
With an estimated investment of over $101 million in WIU over the next decade, the economic impact in Macomb will be substantial.
It’s time lawmakers take action to advance student and community achievement.
Michael Inman, mayor of the city of Macomb; Kim Pierce, president and CEO of Macomb Area Economic Development Corporation; Steven Brody, executive director of Macomb Area Chamber of Commerce and Jock Hedblade, executive director of Macomb Area Convention and Visitors Bureau.
This article originally appeared on The McDonough County Voice: Equitable funding for Illinois universities is vital | Letter
Reporting by Michael Inman, Kim Pierce, Steven Brody, Jock Hedblade, Special to the McDonough County Voice / The McDonough County Voice
USA TODAY Network via Reuters Connect
