University of Minnesota President Robert Bruininks, right, speaks with Board of Regents Chair Clyde Allen just prior to the start of his final Board of Regents meeting Friday, June 10, 2011, where he received acknowledgment of his nine years at the helm of the University. (Pioneer Press: Chris Polydoroff)
As the state's fiscal impasse continues and a final appropriation number for higher education is unknown, the University of Minnesota's Board of Regents heard from several groups Friday about the effects of their proposed budget. Advocates for students, faculty and staff spoke about rising costs, lowered compensation, reduced ability to retain top-flight students and professors, and other pain associated with what, under the latest legislative plan, would be a 12 percent cut for the U from current-year spending. Some spoke in support of the proposal, and some said it was the best available option.
