The President of the Universities of Wisconsin system is advocating for a significant increase in state funding to address budget deficits and enhance the quality of education for students. In a bold move, the system’s leader, Jay Rothman, has proposed an $855 million boost in funding over the next two fiscal years. This increase in funding is aimed at freezing tuition costs and improving employee salaries within the university system.
Rothman’s proposal comes at a crucial time when Wisconsin’s public universities are grappling with financial challenges, with the state ranking 43rd in funding levels per full-time equivalent students at four-year public institutions. According to an annual report from the State Higher Education Executive Officers Association, Wisconsin lags behind other states in terms of investment in higher education. Rothman emphasized the need for Wisconsin to catch up and prioritize its universities to provide a better educational experience for students.
The plan put forth by Rothman, titled “Up to the Middle,” seeks to bridge the funding gap and bring Wisconsin’s investment in higher education up to par with the national average. To achieve this goal, the proposal outlines freezing tuition during the period covered by the increased state funding. Rothman stressed the importance of this initiative, stating, “We won’t win the War for Talent if we don’t get Up to the Middle.” The push for increased funding signals a commitment to addressing years of neglect and ensuring the sustainability of the state’s public universities.
In addition to freezing tuition, Rothman’s proposal includes provisions to extend the state’s tuition promise program to more students. This program, which covers tuition and fees for lower-income students, would now include enrollees from families earning up to $71,000 in adjusted gross income. Despite facing challenges in funding the program in the past, Rothman is determined to reinstate it and expand its reach to support students from diverse economic backgrounds.
Moreover, Rothman’s proposal aims to boost employee morale by increasing wages for staff and faculty. The plan includes a 5% raise for staff members and a 3% raise for faculty, recognizing their dedication and hard work within the university system. Additionally, the proposal outlines the creation of a new artificial intelligence hub, showcasing the system’s commitment to innovation and technological advancement in higher education.
As Rothman prepares to present the proposal to the system’s board of regents and subsequently to Governor Tony Evers for inclusion in the 2025-27 budget, the future of Wisconsin’s public universities hangs in the balance. The potential impact of increased state funding on the quality of education, student support, and faculty retention cannot be understated. However, the road ahead may pose challenges, especially if the state legislature, controlled by Republicans, remains hesitant to approve such a substantial funding increase.
Rothman’s advocacy for more state funding reflects a deep-rooted commitment to the universities of Wisconsin and their pivotal role in shaping the state’s future. With many public universities facing financial strain and diminishing reserves, the need for sustainable funding becomes increasingly urgent. As debates over budget allocations and priorities unfold, Rothman’s vision for a stronger, more resilient university system stands as a beacon of hope for students, faculty, and staff alike.
In conclusion, the call for an $855 million increase in state funding for the Universities of Wisconsin system represents a pivotal moment in the ongoing efforts to strengthen higher education in the state. Through innovative initiatives, such as freezing tuition, expanding student support programs, and investing in employee salaries, Rothman’s proposal charts a path towards a brighter future for Wisconsin’s public universities. As stakeholders weigh in on the proposal’s merits and potential challenges, the overarching goal remains clear: to elevate the quality of education and ensure the long-term sustainability of the state’s university system.