Funding for the University of Wisconsin is now part of the deliberations in the state budget process. Governor Walker's proposal increases funding to the UW System by $87 million dollars, and imposes a tuition freeze for resident undergraduate students. This proposal is currently being reviewed by the Legislature's Joint Finance Committee.
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Over the past few weeks, public attention has been directed toward the presence of reserve funds held by the University of Wisconsin System. At the end of the 2011-12 fiscal year, the system’s fund balances totaled approximately $648 million, according to a report from the Legislative Fiscal Bureau. Of that amount, UW–Madison accounts for about $298 million.
These reserve funds are necessary to sustain the university in challenging times. The ongoing federal sequester could cost UW-Madison tens of millions of dollars in research funding and the level of state funding appropriated by the legislature and governor is always uncertain. The reserve funds at UW-Madison are spread across the schools and colleges, and a significant amount has already been dedicated to undergraduate student financial aid.
Unfortunately this issue has distracted the public and elected officials from the continued development of a 2013-15 budget. The debate over what the appropriate level of ongoing reserves is or should be for an institution with a $2.7 billion budget should not distract anyone from the need for state support to maintain the high quality education that UW-Madison provides.
This week Governor Walker recommended an increase of $87 million for the UW System in the 2013-2015 state budget, along with a tuition freeze for resident undergraduate students. The legislature's Joint Committee on Finance is currently reviewing that proposal.
Visit the links below to learn more about the budget reserves, and get the facts on UW-Madison's overall budget.
May 21: Statement from Interim Chancellor Ward on the Governor's budget proposal.
- Big day for UW System in Madison on Thursday: UW budget to be debated by Joint Finance Committee
- UW System Fund Balances: April 25. Chancellor Ward clarifies the issue of fund balances at UW-Madison.
- UW-Madison Alumni Part of Trade Delegation to China
- How will Governor Walker's budget proposal affect the UW System?
- Alumni Profiles: Meet UW-Madison alumni who are giving back to their communities, right here in Wisconsin.
How does UW-Madison impact your community? Click here to find information about your legislative district.
Budget
2013-2015 Budget Proposal: Learn how Governor Walker's budget proposal will affect the UW System.
Budget Breakdown: Learn more about why UW-Madison is changing the sources of its budget and reevaluating priorities in the face of declining state support.
UW-Madison Initiatives
UW-Madison is currently undergoing three major projects that will improve the student experience, increase flexibility, and save money. Click on the links below to learn more about each of these innovative initiatives.
Educational Innovation: improving the student experience and generating new revenue.
Administrative Excellence: designing more efficient administrative systems and purchasing decisions.
HR Design Project: creating fairer and more flexible human resources policies.
Tuition, Financial Aid and State Support
With one of the lowest tuition rates among its peer universities, UW-Madison must decide the appropriate tuition level to sustain operations while maintaining affordability and access. Read more.
An annual meeting held each fall to discuss the role alumni play in shaping the future of our university.
RESOURCES
Find information about your state Senators and Representatives, track legislation and stay informed about what's happening at the State Capitol.CONTACT
Email Mike Fahey, Managing Director, Alumni Advocacy & Leadership, or call (608) 263-2645.
